Overflowing Rivers Inundate Parts of Northern Odisha

Large parts of northern Odisha reeled under floods on Monday as major rivers including the Subarnarekha and Baitarani overflowed, inundating vast stretches of low-lying areas in Balasore, Bhadrak and Jajpur districts, officials said.

In Balasore district, the Subarnarekha river breached its banks and submerged villages in Balipal, Basta, Bhograi and Jaleswar blocks, leaving several areas marooned. Rescue teams have been deployed to assist affected families.

Neighbouring Bhadrak district also faced severe flooding after the Baitarani river crossed the danger mark at Akhuapada. Floodwaters entered Dhamnagar and Bhandaripokhari blocks, disrupting road connectivity and damaging standing crops.

Officials said that embankments are under close watch as water levels continue to rise in several places. The district administrations of Balasore and Bhadrak have set up temporary shelters and relief camps, while boats have been pressed into service to evacuate stranded villagers.

The Jajpur district administration, too, issued alerts in low-lying areas as rising river water threatened to inundate villages along the Baitarani basin.

With more rainfall forecast in the coming days, authorities have advised people in vulnerable areas to remain cautious. Odisha’s Special Relief Commissioner is closely monitoring the situation, officials added.