General
The Baitarani river crossed the alert level near Akhuapada in Bhadrak district on Thursday, triggering concerns of another flood. The river was flowing at 18.12 metres at 7 AM, while the alert level stands at 17.83 metres. The danger level is fixed at 18.33 metres. Officials confirmed that the water level is gradually rising.
With the swelling of the Baitarani river, there is growing concern over a fresh flood in Bhadrak. People living in low-lying areas vulnerable to inundation were made aware of the situation and an alert was issued. The district administration issued warnings and heightened preparedness measures, especially as Bhadrak recently experienced a flood. Locals near the river are also on alert and are anxious as the previous flood already damaged their crops.
Previous Flood Impact Persists
Although the earlier floodwaters have largely receded, many areas remain waterlogged. Dhamnagar block continues to be one of the worst affected, and any fresh inundation could worsen the crisis. Farmers who had just completed sowing are now facing the grim prospect of renewed crop loss.
Along with Dhamnagar, the blocks of Chandabali and Bhandaripokhari are also at risk. The rising water level threatens to damage vegetable farmlands in these regions. While the local administration remains on high alert, efforts are underway to implement precautionary measures to mitigate the damage.
Farmers already grappling with losses from the previous flood, fear that another deluge would further devastate their livelihoods.