Jajpur, July 30: Floodwaters of the Baitarani River, flowing above the danger mark, have inundated several villages in Odisha's Jajpur district, severely affecting normal life. According to official reports, the floods have impacted 84 villages across 28 gram panchayats in three blocks of the district.

The district administration has shifted more than 3,000 people from low-lying areas to safer locations as a precautionary measure. In view of the worsening flood situation, the Jajpur District Collector has declared a holiday for all government and private schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres across the district.

The rising water level of the Baitarani River has also led to a significant increase in the water level of the Budha River, submerging several more villages.

Meanwhile, two persons have gone missing after being swept away by the strong flood currents in separate incidents.

In the first incident, Ajay Sahu of Mugudi village under Jafarpur Panchayat in Jajpur Block reportedly went missing while returning home after finishing his business. He was allegedly swept away by the powerful floodwaters near Chariki Padia. Fire Services personnel rushed to the spot and launched a search operation.

In another incident, Manoj Jena (35), son of Bhima Jena from Harijan Sahi under Similia Panchayat, was reported missing after being swept away while crossing the Ankura Ghai Ghosara crossing on his way home.

Despite ongoing search operations by rescue teams, the whereabouts of both missing persons remain unknown.

Authorities continue to monitor the flood situation closely as water levels remain high and rescue and relief efforts are underway in the affected areas.