Baripada: Continuous rainfall triggered by a low-pressure area has swollen the Budhabalanga River in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, raising fears of flooding in several low-lying areas.
In view of the heavy rain and the possibility of flooding, all schools in six blocks of the district– Sarasakana, Bangiriposi, Bisoi, Kuliana, Barasahi and Betnoti– remained closed on Tuesday following an order from the Mayurbhanj district administration.
The water level of the Budhabalanga River has been rising rapidly following heavy rainfall in its upper catchment areas. Floodwater has started putting pressure on the Nakhara bridge on the Baishinga-Badasahi main road, causing concern among residents living along the riverbank.
Several low-lying areas, including Nakhara, Patlipura, Dariha, Kathapala, Singlamundali and Salagaon, are facing the possibility of flooding as the river continues to rise.
The Gangahar River has also recorded a sharp rise in its water level. Floodwater from the river could leave several villages in Badasahi block inundated. Water has already started entering agricultural fields along the river.
The district administration has been closely monitoring the situation since Monday night. Senior officials of the district administration visited the Nakhara bridge to assess the flood situation.
Mayurbhanj Collector Hema Kanta Say also reviewed the situation and directed all departments to remain alert and keep necessary arrangements ready to deal with any possible flooding.
As a precautionary measure, heavy vehicles have been restricted from using the Nakhara bridge. Baishinga police have also deployed personnel on both sides of the bridge to regulate crowds gathering to watch the rising floodwater.
The administration, however, received some relief on Tuesday morning as rainfall in the upper catchment areas eased slightly. Officials hope that if the situation remains stable for the next 10 to 12 hours, the threat of a major flood may recede.
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