Bhadrak, Aug 31: Bhadrak district has suffered extensive damage due to the third wave of flooding in the Baitarani River this month, affecting three major blocks — Dhamnagar, Chandbali, and Bhandaripokhari.

District Collector Dilip Routrai confirmed that the floods have severely impacted agricultural lands, particularly paddy cultivation.

According to preliminary assessments, floodwaters have submerged over 7,000 hectares of farmland across 16 panchayats. Dhamnagar block is the worst-hit, with more than 4,000 hectares of paddy fields damaged across eight panchayats. Chandbali block has seen over 3,000 hectares affected in four panchayats, while Bhandaripokhari block reported damage to more than 400 hectares in four panchayats.

The district administration, under the direction of the state government, is conducting a detailed damage assessment. Revenue and Agriculture Department officials are actively surveying the affected areas. A comprehensive report will be submitted to the state government by September 2.

Apart from crop loss, structural damage has also been reported. Several cattle sheds have collapsed, and assessments are underway to evaluate damage to roads, river embankments, schools, and Anganwadi centres.

The estimated loss exceeds 33% of the total cultivated area in the affected blocks, raising concerns about food security and farmer livelihoods. Relief measures and compensation packages are expected to be announced following the submission of the damage report.