Rain Fury / Flood Threat Looms Over Mayurbhanj as Budhabalanga Swells; Schools Closed, Woman Dies in Wall Collapse

Baripada, Sep 25: A flood threat has emerged across Mayurbhanj as incessant rain has caused water levels in several rivers to rise steadily, disrupting road connectivity and raising concerns in low-lying areas, a source said Friday.

The Budhabalanga River, which originates in the Similipal hills, has been swelling continuously following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas. The Palpala River, also originating from Similipal, has also risen, adding to the flood situation downstream.

The situation has particularly affected the Udala-Baripada route, where floodwater has reportedly submerged the Naluha bridge on State Highway 19. Reports from the area indicate that more than four feet of water is flowing over the bridge, disrupting connectivity between Baripada and Bhubaneswar.

At Bangiriposi, around 1.5 feet of floodwater is reportedly flowing over the Budhabalanga bridge. With the river continuing to rise, concerns have intensified over further deterioration of the situation.

Schools Closed Across Mayurbhanj
In view of heavy rain, strong winds and the emerging flood situation, the Mayurbhanj district administration has declared a holiday for all schools from Class-I to Class-XII across the district on Friday.

The District Education Officer, Mayurbhanj, issued the information following the district administration's decision.

Meanwhile, floodwater is feared to enter several areas under Managobindapur and Salgaon panchayats in Badasahi block. Residents living near rivers and in low-lying areas are reportedly apprehensive about the rising water levels.

Water levels have also increased in the Jarali and Sarali drains in Baripada. With the possibility of waterlogging in low-lying areas of Ward 7, residents are being shifted to safer locations, the source added.

The district and municipal administrations are closely monitoring the situation and have reportedly kept emergency response arrangements ready.

Also Read: Incessant Rain Triggers Flooding in Malkangiri; Rail Traffic Suspended in Rayagada After Landslide

Woman Dies After Wall Collapses
In another rain-related incident, a woman died after a wall collapsed at Punasia village under Jalda panchayat in Saraskana block amid heavy rainfall.

The incident has added to concerns over the safety of vulnerable structures as the district continues to receive incessant rain.

With rivers and local water channels continuing to swell, residents in several vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert. Authorities are monitoring river levels and the condition of bridges and other critical infrastructure as the rainfall continues.