Mayurbhanj: Flood in the Budhabalanga River after heavy rainfall has submerged several areas of Betanati block in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district.

As many as 16 gram panchayats in the block have been affected by the flood, with several areas remaining waterlogged. Large stretches of farmland have been submerged, while floodwater has also inundated roads and villages.

One of the worst-hit locations is near the Nakhara bridge. Around three feet of floodwater was reportedly flowing over the old and vulnerable bridge, bringing traffic to a complete halt on the busy Baishinga-Manatri-Udala road. Vehicles remained stranded on both sides of the flooded stretch.

Amid the flood situation, the district administration stepped up relief and rescue efforts. Badasahi MLA Sanatan Bijuli, Mayurbhanj Collector Hema Kanta Say and Superintendent of Police Varun Guntupalli remained on the ground throughout the night to assess the situation.

On Friday afternoon, the MLA and the officials visited the flood-affected areas near the Nakhara bridge by travelling on a tractor. They assessed the situation on the ground and reviewed arrangements for rescue operations, relief distribution and the safety of residents.

They also visited various submerged areas of Badasahi block in a boat to take stock of the situation.

With the Budhabalanga water level still being closely watched, residents in riverine areas remain concerned about the possibility of further deterioration if the river rises more.