About 4 districts in Odisha are on flood alert and authorities have started shifting families in low lying areas to safety. The state has experienced continual rain for the past two days, which drastically increased the water levels in several water bodies.
Areas around Subarnarekha, Baitarani and Budhabalang rivers are on high alert, as are Mayurbhanj, Bhardak, Bhalasore and Keonjhar districts. Flood waters from overflowing rivers have run into settlements, forcing people to take shelter elsewhere.
Nearly 200 families were affected by the floods and paddy fields were submerged along the Budhabalang river. In Mayurbhanj district, 60 school boys were rescued by fire brigade personnel after their school and hostel was completely surrounded with water.
On a lighter note, the Hirakud dam authorities released the first flood waters this year, following a puja. An official noted that it is necessary to release water at this time normally to increase retention capacity.
(AW: Sruthi)
