Low-lying villages in Balasore continue to remain inundated

MANY low-lying villages in Balasore continue to remain inundated even as floodwater from Subarnarekha and Jalaka rivers has receded from most parts of the district.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ Kendrapara

A 60-year-old man died and several panchayats were inundated by the overflowing Brahmani, Baitarani and Kani rivers on Tuesday as the flood situation became grim in Pattamundai and Aul blocks after two days of incessant rains in the district.

The deceased was identified as Dinabandhu Dhal (60) of Palapatana village under Pattamundai block. Dhal was on his way to his submerged village from Damarapur when he was reportedly swept away by the floodwater in the morning. His body was retrieved by locals and fire service personnel in the afternoon.

In Pattamundai, the flood situation has worsened in Singhgaon, Alapua, Taradipal, Penthapala, Andara, Amrutamohani and Baluria gram panchayats which have a population of 55,000. Block chairman Pradyumna Samantray said hundreds of houses are partially submerged in floodwater after the Brahmani river breached at Kolathia village under Penthapala panchayat. Besides, vast tracts of agricultural land have been inundated.