Balasore: The flood situation in the Basta area of Odisha's Balasore district has once again turned serious as the water level of the Jalaka River continues to rise following heavy rainfall in its upper catchment areas in Mayurbhanj district.

Heavy rain over the past two days in areas such as Rasgobindpur, Suliapada, Morada and Chitrada has caused the Jalaka River to swell, inundating several low-lying areas of Basta. Hundreds of hectares of farmland have been submerged, leaving farmers deeply worried about their crops.

The situation has become more difficult as floodwater from the previous flooding on July 28 has not completely receded from several areas. The rising water level of the Jalaka River has now added to the problems of residents and farmers.

Floodwater from the Palpala River has also worsened the situation in parts of the area. Even 12 days after the earlier flood, water remains stagnant over agricultural land at several places. Poor drainage facilities have prevented the water from receding, leaving thousands of hectares of farmland waterlogged.

With paddy crops remaining submerged for several days, farmers fear extensive crop damage. Many of them have already suffered losses due to prolonged waterlogging and are now worried that further rainfall could worsen the situation.

Farmers have urged the district administration to conduct an immediate assessment of the damage and provide adequate government assistance and compensation to those affected.