Rivers swell across Odisha as heavy rain persists; Jalaka crosses danger mark

Rising water levels in multiple rivers across Odisha have triggered flood concerns following heavy and incessant rainfall. The Jalaka River at Mathani in Basta block was flowing at 6.76 metres Friday morning, above its danger mark of 6.50 metres, after heavy rain in upstream Mayurbhanj. In Ganjam district, the Rushikulya stood at 16.510 metres against its danger mark of 16.835 metres, rising steadily after three days of rainfall.

Authorities have opened five gates of the Indravati Dam due to rising reservoir levels, heightening concerns in downstream areas of southern Odisha. Rising water levels in tributaries have added to the swell, increasing risks of inundation in low-lying areas and riverside villages. The Water Resources Department said water levels in Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga rivers are expected to rise to around their danger marks, though the department's Engineer-in-Chief stated there was no possibility of a major flood in the Subarnarekha.