Bhadrak, Aug. 18 (UDN): The flood situation in Odisha’s Bhadrak district deteriorated further on Tuesday as the Salandi and Baitarani rivers continued to flow above their danger levels, inundating several villages and disrupting normal life.

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Following incessant rainfall, floodwaters have spread across low-lying areas in six blocks—Bhadrak, Bhandaripokhari, Basudevpur, Dhamnagar, Tihidi and Chandbali. As a precautionary measure, authorities have ordered the closure of all schools and Anganwadi centres in these blocks for the day.

Several roads and bridges have also been affected by the rising water. Around two feet of floodwater was reportedly flowing over the road at Solampur in Bhandaripokhari block, disrupting vehicular movement. Similar conditions were reported at the Rajamukundapur bridge in Annapal panchayat.

Salandi, Baitarani Above Danger Levels

The rising water levels in the two major rivers have added to concerns among residents of vulnerable areas.

At Rajghat, the Salandi was flowing at 18.10 feet, well above its danger mark of 17 feet.

The Baitarani was also above the danger level at Akhuapada. Against a danger mark of 18.33 metres, the river was flowing at around 19.25 metres.

With both rivers continuing to remain above their respective danger marks, several villages are facing the threat of further inundation.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in low-lying and vulnerable areas, as the swollen rivers continue to pose a risk to residents and road connectivity.

The worsening flood situation has also raised concerns over further disruption to transportation and daily activities if water levels continue to rise.