Rain Fury / Odisha on Flood Watch: Jalaka River Breaches Danger Level, Balasore Reels Under Rain

Bhadrak, Jul 28: Continuous rainfall under the influence of a low-pressure system has triggered flood concerns across several parts of Odisha on Tuesday, with the Jalaka river flowing above the danger level in Balasore district, inundation reported in Balasore town and authorities closing all schools and Anganwadi centres in Bhadrak district as a precaution.

Jalaka Flows Above Danger Level
The Jalaka river has crossed the danger mark at Mathani in Balasore district following incessant rainfall over the past two days in its upper catchment areas.

According to official data, the warning level at Mathani is 6 metres, while the danger level is 6.5 metres. As of 6 am on Tuesday, the river was flowing above the danger mark.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall has been recorded in the Jalaka basin, particularly in the Mayurbhanj areas of Shuliapada, Morada, Chitrada and Rasgovindpur, leading to a rise in the river's water level. Authorities said vulnerable embankments had been identified and strengthened in advance.

Schools, Anganwadi Centres Closed In Bhadrak
With continuous rainfall affecting normal life, the Bhadrak district administration has ordered the closure of all government, government-aided and private schools, along with all Anganwadi centres, on Tuesday.

The order was issued by the District Collector, citing the safety of children and students as the top priority.

The administration has also urged parents, teachers and the public to remain alert and follow official weather advisories.

Salandi River Rises
The water level of the Salandi river has also increased after the gates of the Hadagarh Dam were opened.

At Rajghat in Bhadrak district, the river was flowing at 16.68 feet, below the danger level of 17 feet, but officials continue to monitor the situation closely.

Also Read: Odisha on High Alert as Deep Depression Brings Heavy Rain

Floodwaters Continue Through Mahanadi System
The low-pressure-induced rainfall has also caused flood conditions in the Mahanadi and its tributaries for the second time this season.


Floodwater continues to be released from the Hirakud reservoir through two gates, while nearly 7 lakh cusecs of water is flowing through Mundali in Cuttack district.

Officials of the Water Resources Department said there is currently no indication of any further significant rise in the river's water level.

Balasore Town Waterlogged
Meanwhile, Balasore town remained inundated after relentless rain since Sunday.


Several localities, including OT Road, Gudipada and Congress Office Lane, were submerged, with nearly two feet of water reported on several roads and lanes.

Water also entered residential houses and commercial establishments, forcing residents to wade through waterlogged streets. Overflowing drains further worsened the situation, causing widespread inconvenience across the town.