TV
The flood situation in northern Odisha continues to worsen after the Subarnarekha river crossed the danger mark, triggering alarm in several low-lying regions. At Rajghat in Balasore district, the river was flowing at 10.83 metres by 7 am on Tuesday, well above the danger level.
In Balasore district, floodwaters have submerged parts of Bhograi block, with over 30 villages across 15 panchayats affected. Inundation has led to the disruption of daily life, marooning several households and damaging roads and crops.
Meanwhile, the Jalaka river in the Basta block is flowing just below the danger level. At Mathani, the water level was recorded at 6.50 metres against the danger mark of 6.59 metres. Ten villages in the region are reported to be partially submerged.
In Kusuda village under Bhograi block, floodwaters have entered houses, leaving villagers stranded in knee-to-waist-deep water. Locals have expressed deep resentment over the lack of timely assistance, alleging that no administrative help reached them so far.
“While life was slowly limping back to normalcy after the first spell of floods, the second wave has once again thrown everything out of gear. We have been suffering for days and demand a permanent solution,” said a local resident.
“While the district administration is yet to reach the affected areas, OTV is here on the ground highlighting our plight,” he added.
Accusing the administration of apathy, another villager said, “We have been struggling to get drinking water for the past three days. With floodwaters entering our village, we, along with our livestock, are completely trapped.”
Relief efforts have yet to pick up pace, even as the administration continues to monitor the rising water levels. Further updates are awaited.
No comments from the district administration could be obtained on the rising flood situation.
