Rain Fury / Mayurbhanj Flood Situation Grim As Budhabalanga Rises; Schools Shut

Baripada, Aug 14: Flood conditions worsened in parts of Mayurbhanj district following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve, triggering a rise in the water level of the Budhabalanga river, a source said Friday.

While the flood situation in Baripada city has started improving, areas under Badasahi and Betnoti blocks continue to remain seriously affected.

Schools, Colleges Shut For A Day
In view of the incessant rainfall and flood situation in Baripada and other parts of the district, the Mayurbhanj district administration has declared a holiday for schools and colleges across the district for Friday.

Situation Improves Slightly In Baripada
Floodwater from the Budhabalanga river had entered wards 7, 8 and 9 of Baripada on Thursday, prompting authorities to evacuate residents from low-lying areas to shelters.

The river's water level has fallen since Friday morning and is currently flowing within its banks. People staying in shelters are gradually returning home.

Roads Cut Off In Badasahi, Betnoti Areas
The situation remains critical downstream, with floodwater disrupting traffic on the Badasahi-Betnoti, Manatri-Betnoti and Manatri-Baisinga roads.

Floodwater is reportedly flowing around 3 feet above several bridges, leaving several villages cut off and inundating thousands of acres of farmland.

The district administration, police, fire services and ODRAF teams have been deployed in the affected areas for rescue and relief operations.

Jalaka River Crosses Danger Mark By Nearly One Metre
Meanwhile, the Jalaka river is witnessing what has been described as its biggest flood of the current decade.

At Baleshwar's Mathani, where the danger mark is 6.50 metres, the river was flowing at 7.41 metres as of 6 am, nearly one metre above the danger level.

Of the 28 gram panchayats in Basta vblock, 20 have been impacted, with communication to all villages disrupted.

Three ODRAF Teams Deployed
The administration deployed three ODRAF teams for rescue operations. Residents of affected villages are being shifted to schools and flood shelters.

Dry and cooked food has also been arranged for affected residents. However, disruption to road connectivity is hampering the delivery of relief supplies in some areas.

Also Read: Kendujhar's Joda, Badbil Reel Under Heavy Rain & Flooding

The situation is being closely monitored, particularly as heavy rainfall was reported in Mayurbhanj overnight and could lead to a further rise in water levels.

With rainfall reducing since Thursday night, authorities expect some improvement in the flood situation. However, as floodwater continues to move downstream, low-lying areas of Baleshwar district could also face increased impacts.