Baripada, Jul 2: The flood threat in Mayurbhanj district has largely subsided following a decline in rainfall and receding water levels in major rivers.

Triggered by a low-pressure system, the district had witnessed rising waters in rivers like Budhabalanga, Gangahar, Sona, and Jambhira, affecting several blocks including Baripada, Betanati, Shuliapada, Saraskana, Rasgovindpur, Morada, and Rairangpur.

The situation worsened after water was released from Jharkhand’s Galudihi Barrage, causing the Subarnarekha River to swell and flood low-lying areas in Saraskana and Rasgovindpur blocks. Villages like Neda and Tikayatpur were among the worst affected.

District authorities responded swiftly by evacuating residents and distributing cooked and dry food to flood-hit families.

According to official reports, 214 villages across 63 gram panchayats were impacted, affecting over 6,470 people. Two kutcha houses were completely destroyed, while 119 others suffered partial damage. Medical and veterinary teams were deployed to the affected areas to prevent disease outbreaks.

By Monday evening, the water level in the Subarnarekha began to recede, allowing displaced residents to return home. Relief efforts continued into Tuesday, with food distribution and health services still active in some pockets.

District Collector Hema Kanta Say confirmed that a detailed damage assessment is underway. Once completed, compensation will be provided to all eligible beneficiaries. However, the process has been delayed due to the absence of OAS officers on leave, affecting field verification and report compilation.

With another low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal, the administration remains on high alert to respond to any renewed threats.

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