Jharsuguda : Torrential rains under the influence of a low-pressure system have thrown life out of gear across Jharsuguda district, submerging numerous villages and disrupting daily activities. All tributaries of the Mahanadi River, including Ib, Veden, and Telen, are in spate, with surrounding areas facing severe waterlogging.
According to the Regional Meteorological Department, the district received an average rainfall of 218.44 mm over the last 24 hours, with the Lakera block recording the highest at 270.4 mm. Other affected blocks include Kirmira (255.3 mm), Kolabira (233 mm), Jharsuguda (213.3 mm), and Lakhanpur (120.2 mm).
The impact has been particularly severe in the Kolabira block, where the Seven-Marla picnic spot at Parmanpur (Kalibahal) and Salepali village lie submerged. Access to these areas has been completely cut off. The situation is similar at the Lilari Nala, a key connector between Belpahar and Bandhabahal, and the Mundrajore bridge in Lakera, where water has overflowed, halting traffic and raising concerns about the structural stability of the old bridge.
In a harrowing incident, a biker crossing the Rajpur Chandimal bridge was swept away by the raging waters. Locals rushed to rescue the injured biker. In another case, a heavy vehicle carrying iron channels reportedly sank into the Chaunri Mahul Nala bridge, further underlining the vulnerability of local infrastructure.
Urban areas in Jharsuguda town haven’t been spared either. The old settlement pond has breached, flooding homes near the old bus stand. Many residents reported sleepless nights as water gushed into their homes and roads were blocked. The local police were deployed to restore order and assist in evacuation.
In Brajrajnagar town, floodwaters from the Ib River entered localities like Remja and Ita Bhatta, forcing people to relocate to safer areas. District Magistrate Aboli Sunil Narwane, along with Brajrajnagar Town Council Chairman, visited the affected sites to assess the situation. “We have provided hot food and medical aid to the displaced. Several houses have been damaged,” the District Magistrate confirmed. Assessment and reporting of the damage are underway as per orders from Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari.
Road infrastructure across the district has taken a major hit. The Lakera block has seen roads washed away in several places. District authorities have promised immediate repair and restoration. Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathy inspected flood-affected locations including Babu Chipidihi (Lakera block), Titheimaal in Bhatlaida Panchayat, Kulemura-Khuntamal road, the Telen river bridge (Mundrajore-Aitapali route), Nayak Bandhpali in Sahaspur Panchayat, and Rengalbeda.
“Villages like Babu Chipidihi and Rengalbeda have suffered extensive damage, with 2–3 houses completely destroyed,” said Tripathy. “Residents have been moved to safer places and are being provided with food, shelter, and medical services. Damaged roads will be rebuilt on a war footing.”
MLA Tripathy further informed the Revenue Minister and Chief Minister about the unfolding crisis, requesting immediate relief measures. He also urged social organizations to step forward and support the affected communities.
With more rain forecasted, the situation may further deteriorate. Officials, including RI’s and disaster management teams, are on high alert, conducting ground assessments and preparing contingency plans.
