Severe Flooding in Northern Odisha: Over 600,000 Affected

Odisha remains on high alert as severe flooding continues in four northern districts. The rising water levels in the Mahanadi River have led to moderate flooding risks in low-lying areas. So far, more than 165,000 individuals have been relocated to safer locations, with over 600,000 people affected by the floods. In response to the heavy rainfall forecasted by the India Meteorological Department, authorities have ordered the closure of schools and anganwadi centers in the districts of Bhadrak, Jajpur, Nabarangpur, and Kalahandi.

Continuous rainfall due to a deep depression has inundated several villages in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Mayurbhanj, prompting an escalation in rescue operations. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated that while water levels in some rivers of northern Odisha are decreasing, they still remain above danger levels, and new areas have been submerged overnight.

The administration is on high alert, and all officials in flood-affected districts have had their leaves canceled. In Jajpur district, Collector Ambar Kumar Kar reported that two breaches occurred in the embankment of the 'Kani' river, a tributary of the Baitarani River, worsening the situation. These breaches have caused several villages to become surrounded by water, severely impacting residents in three blocks.

Meanwhile, the swelling Mahanadi River has raised significant concerns. Following heavy rainfall in the upper regions of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, authorities have alerted districts along the river basin. An official noted that conditions have worsened as floodwaters from the Tel, Ib, and Jira rivers are merging with the Mahanadi, further increasing water levels. The Hirakud Dam recorded a water level of 620 feet, with its full capacity being 630 feet. Currently, 331,063 cusecs of water are flowing into the reservoir, while 64,109 cusecs are being released through two gates.

Officials indicated that if water levels continue to rise, additional gates may need to be opened. Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, Dilip Kumar Raut, mentioned that as of Thursday morning, approximately eight lakh cusecs of water was flowing near Mundali, which could increase to nine lakh cusecs by evening, potentially leading to moderate flooding in the Mahanadi system. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, currently in Delhi, posted on social media Wednesday night, instructing all district collectors to remain on high alert and ensure timely assistance for affected individuals.