Bhubaneswar: Heavy rains in northern Orissa caused by a depression in the Bay of Bengal has led to rising water levels in six rivers, triggering fears of floods, officials said Tuesday.

"The water levels in Budhabalanga, Brahmani, Subarnarekha, Jalaka, Kansabansa and Sona rivers have been rising due to incessant rains in the past two days," D.N. Sahu, an official in the state revenue control room, told IANS.

While the water level in Jalaka River has crossed the danger mark in Balasore district, it is below the danger mark in the other rivers, the official added.

Jalaka's water level was 6.41 metres at 8 a.m. Tuesday, against the danger mark of 5.50 metres. It will start flooding villages in the low-lying areas if it crosses 7.50 metres, Sahu said.

District Collector A.K. Padhiary said: "We have kept relief materials ready and have deployed officials for relief and rescue in the area for prompt action. We have also deployed officials to keep a watch on the river embankment."

 

Source : IANS