Bhadrak, Jul 2: A flood-like situation has gripped parts of Bhadrak district after four gates of the Hadagarh Dam were opened, causing the Salandi River to swell and overflow into nearby villages. The sudden rise in water levels has inundated farmlands and residential areas across several panchayats in Bhadrak and Tihidi blocks.

The worst-affected areas include Khantatada, Arnapal, and Bishnupur panchayats, where floodwaters have entered both agricultural fields and homes. In some villages, water has gushed into houses during the night, forcing families to evacuate with children in tow and seek shelter in safer locations. Over 4,000 people have reportedly been impacted in Khantatada and Bental panchayats alone.

Livestock has also borne the brunt of the flooding. Many cattle remain unfed, with villagers tying them along river embankments to keep them safe. The situation has sparked anger among residents, who allege that the flooding was worsened by illegal fishing activities using sluice gates on the river, which obstructed the natural flow of water.

A team led by the Executive Engineer of the Salandi Canal Division visited the flood-hit areas to assess the damage. However, the visit was met with protests from villagers at Bental, who blocked roads and expressed outrage over the administration’s failure to prevent the crisis.

Officials have since closed one of the four dam gates to control the water flow. The Salandi Canal Division has assured that the flood situation is being closely monitored and further preventive measures will be taken if necessary.

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