There are major concerns about flooding in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts of Odisha

BARIPADA/BALASORE: Incessant rainfall over the past few days, caused by a new low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, has caused panic among residents in low-lying areas of Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts. Rising water levels in the Jalaka river, which flows near the warning sign at Mathani in Basta block, have increased fears of fresh floods.

Residents of Basta, Baliapal, Bhograi and Jaleswar, who recently faced receding water from Subarnarekha and Jalaka rivers, are now facing new challenges as rains continue to lash most parts of the districts.

The Jalaka river, which receives water from Rasgovindpur, Amarda and Chitrada in Mayurbhanj district, is expected to flood again if rain continues for another day. In Jaleswar block, a recent breach in the embankment of a tributary has disrupted communication between Kamarda, Baliapal and Jaleswar. The embankment, which collapsed over 100 meters, damaged the concrete road at Jhardpimpal, causing cracks and creating risks for commuters.

Locals Kumud Sahoo, Prafulla Majhi, Sankar Das and Krithish Rana confirmed that the condition of the embankment deteriorated overnight after incessant rains.

In Bhograi block, villagers constructed a road near Banamali Majhi Harijana Sahi UP School to drain stagnant water, but the sand mafia reportedly rehabilitated the road for the movement of sand-laden vehicles, affecting school activities.

After being informed, Balasore collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas directed officials of the irrigation department and other authorities to inspect the sites and take necessary action.