Bhubaneswar, June 30: The Odisha government has placed Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts on high alert as heavy rainfall and rising river levels pose a potential flood threat in the region. Continuous downpour in the catchment areas of neighbouring Jharkhand has led to a dangerous swell in major rivers such as the Subarnarekha and Budhabalang.

According to the Department of Water Resources, the Subarnarekha River at Rajghat in Balasore has crossed the danger mark, rising to 11.52 metres against the critical level of 10.36 metres. The Jalaka River at Mathani is also flowing above the danger mark at 6.84 metres, while the Budhabalang River at NH-5 is currently at 7.20 metres, just below its danger level of 8.13 metres.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari assured that the situation is under control, but the government is taking no chances. He said the state is in touch with Jharkhand regarding incomplete dam projects like Chandil. Officials are closely monitoring river gauges and reinforcing embankments in vulnerable areas.

The minister added that favorable sea conditions are aiding water discharge, and efforts are ongoing to prevent flooding in low-lying areas like Jaleswar.

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