Bhubaneswar, Sept. 25 -- The water levels of the Jalaka and Baitarani rivers are rising amid incessant rainfall, raising flood concerns in parts of northern Odisha. At Mathani in Basta block, the Jalaka was flowing at 6.76 metres as of 6 am on Friday, above the danger mark of 6.50 metres.

The rise in the Jalaka's water level is being attributed to heavy rainfall in upstream Mayurbhanj and continuous rain in Basta. The rising water level has caused concern among people living near the river.

Basta block has already witnessed damage to thousands of hectares of farmland due to repeated flooding this year. Reports indicate that if another flood occurs, more than 10 panchayats in Basta and two panchayats in Sadar block are likely to be affec...