Bhubaneswar: Incessant rain triggered by a depression has raised the likelihood of a minor flood in Odisha as the water levels in several rivers began rising on Monday.
As the state recorded above-normal rainfall, the state government has warned of a possible minor flood situation in parts of Jajpur and Bhadrak districts as the water level in the Baitarani River continues to rise.
According to Water Resources Department Chief Engineer Dillip Rout, the state has received rainfall higher than the seasonal average, leading to an increase in the river’s water level. He said low-lying areas of Jajpur district are likely to be affected if the river continues to swell.
Officials said th
e Baitarani River at Akhuapada is expected to cross the danger mark by around 4 pm on Monday. Floodwaters may enter parts of Jajpur and Bhadrak districts, with Akhuapada and nearby areas likely to bear the brunt of the rising water.
However, there is no possibility of a major flood at present. He added that most reservoirs in the state have sufficient storage capacity and are not posing any concern, said Rout.
Officials also clarified that no decision has been taken so far on opening the gates of the Hirakud Dam on Mahanadi River.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that Sonpur recorded the highest volume rainfall of 328.4 mm in the state during the last 24 hours.
Hirakud recorded 200.2 mm, while Sambalpur received 193.4 mm during the same period.
Both urban and rural areas have been severely affected, with roads remaining submerged and waterlogging continuing to disrupt daily life.
Floodwater affected several areas across the state, including districts such as Koraput, Baleshwar, Balangir, Kendujhar and Bhadrak, disrupting normal life
Twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Kataka also witnessed similar conditions. Rainwater entered several houses, leaving many families stranded in waterlogged conditions. Knee-deep water accumulated outside residential buildings, causing hardship for residents.