Ganjam, Sept. 25 (UDN): The water level of the Rushikulya River in Odisha’s Ganjam district continued to rise on Friday following three days of heavy rainfall, with the river approaching its designated danger mark and raising concerns in low-lying areas along its banks.

At Purushottampur, the river was recorded at 16.510 metres in the morning, against the danger level of 16.835 metres, according to the available water-level assessment.

Tributaries Push Up River Level

Continuous rainfall across Ganjam has increased the flow in the Rushikulya and its tributaries, resulting in a steady rise in the river’s water level.

The river has moved closer to the danger mark as rainwater continues to enter the river system, prompting increased concern among residents of villages situated along the riverbanks.

Low-Lying Areas Face Inundation Risk

Residents in riverside settlements are apprehensive that a further rise in the water level could affect low-lying areas.

CWC observer at Purushottampur K. Sukanta Reddy said the river was nearing the danger mark and that the water level was still rising.

He said areas located at lower elevations near the river could face inundation if the water level crosses the danger mark.

Situation Being Closely Watched

The continuing rainfall and rising river level have put residents in vulnerable riverside locations on alert.

Authorities and water-resource monitoring teams are keeping a watch on the situation as the river continues to receive increased inflow from its tributaries.

Further rise in the water level will determine the extent of the impact on nearby low-lying settlements.