Paralakhemundi: Heavy rainfall that began in Odisha's Gajapati early Saturday has continued, disrupting normal life across the district.

Markets and roads wore a deserted look as people reduced their movement due to the incessant rainfall. The situation in low-lying and remote areas has also raised concern.

The water level of the Vamsadhara River, which flows near Kashinagar, has been rising due to the continuous rain. The river recorded a water level of 53.69 metres at 6 am on Sunday at Kashinagar against the danger level of 54.60 metres.

With heavy rain continuing, there is a possibility that the river water level may rise further.

According to available data, Gajapati recorded 121.6 mm of rainfall by Sunday morning, while the cumulative rainfall had reached 501.2 mm.

The continuing rain and rising Vamsadhara water level have heightened apprehension among residents in riverbank areas, particularly those living in low-lying and remote locations.