Baitarani Floods Force Closure of 65 Schools in Jajpur

Jajpur district is reeling under floodwaters after the Baitarani River crossed its danger mark of 18.33 m at Akhuapada, following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas.

The District Education Office has ordered the closure of 65 schools in Dasarathpur block, including government, aided, and private institutions.

Floodwaters have inundated 19 gram panchayats, affecting nearly 60 villages.

Breaches at Dobabil Patana and Kantapada in Tarpada panchayat, along with damage near Jayantara Mahapatra Sahi, have worsened the crisis.

Families are taking shelter on rooftops, embankments, and relief centres, while children’s books and study materials have been destroyed.

Students in the affected panchayats have already missed classes for over a month, raising concerns among parents as matriculation exams approach.

Community members are urging the government to arrange alternative learning options to prevent further disruption in education.