Five Districts in Odisha Flooded After Heavy Rainfall, Evacuations Underway At least five districts in the eastern Indian state of Odisha have been impacted by fresh flooding following two days of intense rainfall, prompting authorities to initiate evacuations of residents from low-lying areas and establish relief centers. Officials confirmed that Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Jajpur, and Keonjhar districts have been affected, with water levels rising in key rivers such as the Jalaka, Budhabalanga, and Subarnarekha. The floods have disrupted local communities, with rescue and relief operations underway to assist displaced residents. Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Pravakar Patil stated that villagers in 45 gram panchayats across Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, and Jajpur districts are being evacuated to relief centers, where cooked food and essential supplies are being distributed. The rising water levels in the Jalaka and Budhabalanga rivers have caused significant flooding in Balasore town, Basta, and Bhograi areas, with relief materials provided to affected residents. Patil also highlighted that the Subarnarekha River is swelling, prompting cautionary measures in the Balasore district. A total of 17 rescue teams, including 10 from the Odisha Disaster Response Force (ODRAF) and seven from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have been deployed to the affected districts. Fire services personnel have also been mobilized to support rescue and relief efforts. In Keonjhar district, floods were reported due to increased water levels in the Baitarani River, with Joda, Champua, Barbil, and Anandapur blocks experiencing severe impacts. A breach in the Anandapur ring embankment led to water entering localities, and floodwaters were observed flowing over a state highway near Serenda.#odisha #balasore #mayurbhanj #bhadrak #jajpur
