Jajpur: The Baitarani River is swelling again, raising fears of yet another flood in Dasarathpur block of Odisha’s Jajpur district. The latest rise in water level, triggered by rainfall in Keonjhar under the influence of a low-pressure area, has added to the worries of residents who have already been battling floodwaters for weeks.At 12 noon on Sunday, the Baitarani water level at Akhuapada was recorded at 17.82 metres, against the danger mark of 18.33 metres. The water level is continuing to rise, raising the possibility of another round of flooding in low-lying areas of Dasarathpur. This could be the seventh flood to hit the block this season.Residents are particularly worried about vulnerable stretches of the embankments and existing breaches. Floodwater from the Kani, a branch of the Baitarani, could enter through open breaches at Dobavil-Patana in Tarpada panchayat and at Kantapada.There are also two open breaches in the embankment near Mahapatra Sahi of Jayantara along the Baitarani. A further rise in the river water level could push floodwater into the locality.The situation has become particularly difficult for flood-affected families. Dasarathpur has been experiencing the impact of floods since July 6, and the crisis has now stretched to 56 days.Following four breaches that occurred from July 28, many affected residents were forced to take shelter on embankments, rooftops, in relief centres and at relatives’ houses. Several families have still not been able to return home even after 34 days….
Season’s 7th flood threat looms over Jajpur’s Dasarathpur, affected residents yet to return home
