Rising River Levels Spark Flood Concerns in Eastern India

Baitarani and Jalaka Rivers Approach Dangerous Levels, Triggering Flood Concerns for Residents

The recent incessant rainfall in the state, caused by a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal and heavy precipitation in the upper catchment areas, has led to a significant rise in water levels in multiple rivers.

The Baitarani River, in particular, has surged beyond the danger mark at Akhuapada in Bhadrak district. At 6 am this morning, it was flowing at 17.90 meters, surpassing the danger mark of 17.83 meters, raising concerns of a potential moderate flood in the region. Remarkably, this marks the third time this year that the Baitarani River has breached the danger mark.

Similarly, the water levels in the Salandi, Reba, and Kapali rivers have also been steadily rising due to the continuous rainfall.

Meanwhile, panic has gripped residents of low-lying areas in Balasore district as the Jalaka River breached the danger mark near Mathani, exacerbated by days of incessant rain. The river swelled to over 6.32 meters, well above the danger mark of 5.50 meters. This has caused waterlogging in several low-lying areas and disrupted road communication at multiple points due to overflowing water.

With the regional center of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for nine districts, the situation may worsen in the near future.