Bhubaneswar: Water levels in several rivers in Odisha rose rapidly following incessant rain triggered by a deep depression, raising flood threats in different parts of the state.
In south Odisha which was severely hit by the deep depression, water levels in all rivers are showing a rising threat triggering a flood-like situation, according to Water Resources Department Engineer-in-Chief (EIC) Dillip Rout.
Elsewhere in the state, the Baitarani River in Bhadrak district has crossed the danger mark at Akhuapada. The danger level stands at 18.33 metres, while the river was now flowing at 18.35 metres. The district administration has sounded a flood alert for Dhamnagar and Bhandaripokhari areas.
Similarly, the Jalka River is also flowing above the danger mark in Baleshwar district. At Mathani, the danger level is 6.50 metres, but the river is currently at 6.76 metres.
In Ganjam district, continuous heavy rain has led to a sharp rise in water levels of the Rushikulya, Badanadi, Baghua and Ghodahada rivers. Flood threats are particularly high along the Rushikulya, often described as the lifeline of Ganjam.
At Janibili Anicut in the upper reaches of the Rushikulya, the danger level is 14 feet. Overnight, the water level reached 13.4 feet. At Aska, where the danger mark is 6.7 feet, the river is flowing at 4 feet. Water from the Rushikulya has already entered some low-lying areas of Aska.
The swelling of the Badanadi, Baghua and Ghodahada rivers has further complicated the situation. River water has entered the premises of Seragada Kumarapani School, while waterlogging has also been reported at the Seragada Community Health Centre.
District administrations are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert.
According to EIC Rout, water levels in almost all major rivers in south Odisha are increasing following the prolonged spell of rain. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to manage the situation.
Five gates of the Indravati Dam have been opened to regulate the reservoir level, he said.
Ruling out any immediate possibility of a major flood in the Subarnarekha river, Rout said the water level in the Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga rivers is expected to touch only the warning level.
Similarly, there is no likelihood of a flood in the Brahmani and Mahanadi rivers at present.
The Water Resources Department is keeping a close watch on the river systems as heavy rainfall continues to affect several parts of the state.