Odisha is grappling with the aftermath of heavy rainfall that has caused rivers to swell, leading to flooding in several villages. The Subarnarekha River is particularly affected, with water levels rising above the danger mark and impacting communities in the Balasore district. More than 50,000 people have been affected as floodwaters have entered villages, particularly in the Balasore district. The flash flood affected around 17 gram panchayat areas in the three blocks of Bhograi, Baliapal, and Basta and a part of Jaleswar Notified Area Council (NAC).
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued warnings of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across Odisha from June 17 to 20, attributing it to a low-pressure area over southwest Bangladesh and the Gangetic region of West Bengal. These predictions materialized, leading to a challenging situation for many residents. The IMD had cautioned about the possibility of flash floods and waterlogging, especially in low-lying and urban areas, due to the weather system's slow movement and prolonged rainfall. Orange and yellow alerts were sounded for multiple districts, with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds also expected.
The situation has been exacerbated by the release of water from dams in neighboring Jharkhand. A sudden release of water from the Chandil Dam in Jharkhand contributed to the flash flood experienced in parts of Balasore district. Similarly, excess water released from the Galudih barrage in Jharkhand compounded the inundation in low-lying areas of Bhogarai and Baliapal.
Several villages have been severely affected, with reports indicating that roads are inundated and some panchayats are isolated. Villages such as Khalabadia, Kulha, and Baunskhana in Bhogarai, and Kudamansingh, Chaudhurykud, and Baliapal have reported significant flooding, with water levels reaching up to four feet in some areas. Vehicular movement has been stalled, and standing crops have been submerged, leading to considerable agricultural losses.
The district administration is working to provide relief and rescue operations. The administration has geared up for relief and rescue operations, advising residents in low-lying areas to stay alert and prepared to move to nearby cyclone shelters if needed. Block development officers and tehsildars have been instructed to remain on 24-hour alert and cancel all leaves. Preparations are underway for possible evacuations to relief shelters, and stockpiling of essential supplies has been ordered. The Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has deployed teams to Balasore, with additional teams stationed in Mayurbhanj district, to assist with rescue and relief efforts.
While the Subarnarekha River is a major concern, other rivers in Odisha are also being closely monitored. The Brahmani river, for instance, rose to near-danger levels due to heavy rains and the release of water from the Mandira dam, causing panic among residents in low-lying areas.
Looking ahead, the IMD has forecast the development of another low-pressure system over the North Bay of Bengal, expected to bring more widespread heavy rainfall across Odisha from June 26 to 29. This forecast has prompted authorities to remain vigilant and prepared for potential waterlogging and flood risks.
