Over 50,000 affected as Subarnarekha River floods villages in Balasore

Bhubaneswar, June 21: Over 50,000 people have been affected in Odisha’s Balasore district after floodwaters from the Subarnarekha River inundated several villages on Saturday, following heavy rainfall in neighbouring Jharkhand. The flash flood has impacted at least 17 gram panchayats across the blocks of Bhograi, Baliapal, Basta, and parts of Jaleswar NAC.

Officials said the water level at Rajghat in Jaleswar block has crossed the danger mark, causing widespread flooding. Villages such as Khalabadia, Kulha, and Baunskhana in Bhograi and Kudamansingh, Chaudhurykud, and Baliapal in Baliapal block are submerged. In several areas, floodwaters are flowing up to four feet above roads, severely affecting vehicular movement and isolating communities.

District Collector Suryawanshi Mayur Vikas has instructed Block Development Officers (BDOs) and tehsildars to stay on alert for possible evacuations. All government employees’ leaves have been cancelled, and those on leave have been ordered to return immediately. Officials have also been told not to leave their headquarters under any circumstances.

Relief efforts are underway, including distribution of dry food, healthcare support from the CDMO, and monitoring of Chandil Dam gates by the irrigation department to prevent further escalation. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to prepare for relocation to cyclone shelters if conditions worsen.