Tel River nears danger mark in Boudh, road connectivity disrupted

The Tel River in Boudh is flowing close to the danger mark after heavy inflow from upstream. Floodwater has disrupted traffic on State Highway 41.

By Baisakhi On Jul 31, 2026 Share

Boudh: Due to increased inflow from the upper catchment areas, the water level of Tel River in Odisha’s Boudh district is on the rise. According to the latest sources, the water level is flowing at a height nearing the danger mark of 11 meters near Kantamal, prompting concerns among local residents and officials. The surge follows prolonged rainfall in the upper catchment regions, which has significantly increased the river’s discharge over the past 48 hours.

As floodwater started entering Adagudi Nala near Manikpur in Kantamal block, traffic on the Kantamal-Ghantapada section of State Highway 41 continued to be disrupted on Friday. Local commuters reported long delays, with several vehicles stranded mid-road due to rising water levels. "We’ve been stuck here since morning," said Rajesh Kumar, a daily wage laborer traveling from Ghantapada to Kantamal. "The water is rising fast, and there’s no alternative route. We’re relying on boats and walking through waist-deep water to reach essential services."

Two feet of water also started flowing over the Kalamua bridge, prompting authorities to prohibit any traffic movement on the bridge for the safety of commuters. The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) issued an advisory urging residents to avoid non-essential travel and to evacuate low-lying areas if water levels continue to rise. "We are monitoring the situation round the clock," said District Collector Anil Patnaik. "Teams have been deployed to assess damage, assist stranded individuals, and coordinate with the police and fire services for rescue operations if needed."

A large number of people and vehicles are marooned due to the rising water level, particularly in the villages of Manikpur, Adagudi, and nearby hamlets. Local panchayat officials have set up temporary relief camps at the Kantamal block office and a nearby school, providing drinking water, biscuits, and basic medical aid. "We’ve moved elderly residents and children to safer ground," said Sarpanch Meera Dei of Kantamal block. "But many are reluctant to leave their homes and livestock. We’re doing our best to convince them."

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with continuous updates being shared via the district administration’s official channels. The Irrigation Department has confirmed that upstream dams are releasing water cautiously to prevent sudden surges, but the natural inflow from the catchment remains high. Meteorological officials have forecasted intermittent showers over the next 24 hours, which could further exacerbate the situation.

Residents remain anxious as the river hovers just below the critical 11-meter threshold. While no casualties have been reported so far, officials warn that even a slight increase could inundate more homes and disrupt power and communication lines. Emergency helplines have been activated, and volunteers from local NGOs are assisting in evacuation efforts. The administration has urged the public to stay informed through official alerts and avoid spreading unverified information on social media.

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