Flood fear looms large as Jalaka river crosses danger mark in Balasore

The water level in Jalaka river has increased significantly following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the river. 

Places like Morada, Rasgobindapur and Suliapada which are situated in the upper catchment of Jalaka river in Mayurbhanj district received heavy rainfall in the past couple of days. 

As a result, the river which passed through Basta area in Balasore district is now flowing above danger mark. The river has crossed the danger mark at Mathani. While the danger mark at Mathani is 5.5 metre, the river was flowing 6.28 metre at 8 am this morning.

With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting heavy rain for the next few days, it is apprehended that the water level will further rise. If the water level will cross 6.70 there is threat of flood in the area.

If the flood situation arises, seven panchayats of Basta block-Mathani, Baharda, Dudhahansa, Sadanandapur, Barunagadia, Chakurai and Dariya- and two panchayats of Sadar block will be affected.

The water resources department stacked sand-filled bags near weak river embankments to prevent any breach. Besides, the district administration has kept a close watch on the situation.

The water level in Baitarani river also increased following rain in its upper catchment areas. The river is flowing at 17.68 metre at Akhuapada while the danger mark is 17.83 metre.

Meanwhile, the Hirakud dam authorities opened four more sluice gates to release excess floodwater to downstream Mahanadi. Currently, the dam is releasing 39,957 cusec water through 14 sluice gates while the inflow of water into the dam reservoir is 3,97,451 cusec.