After days of relentless rain, Friday brought much-needed relief for residents of Jamshedpur, particularly those in low-lying areas, as the skies remained largely clear throughout the day. However, experts have cautioned that the monsoon has just started and rains may return, potentially worsening the flood situation. Despite the break in rainfall, the danger is far from over. Both the Swarnarekha and Kharkai rivers continued to flow above the danger mark on Friday, following incessant downpours since Tuesday that led to the submergence of nearly 200 houses in vulnerable parts of the city. The situation escalated after two gates each of the Byangbil and Kharkai dams in Odisha were opened to release excess water, contributing to the already swollen rivers. As floodwaters entered several residential areas, approximately 150 families — primarily slum dwellers living in the catchment zones of the two rivers — were evacuated to safer locations on the directions of the district administration. Relief camps have been set up to shelter the displaced families, with provisions for food, drinking water, and basic amenities. Baghbera New Colony, Nirmal Nagar, Shastrinagar, and Jugsalai are among the worst-affected areas, with several homes waterlogged and residents forced to relocate. Amid the unfolding crisis, Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi led an inspection of the most affected areas, including Kadma, Shastrinagar, Domuhani, and Shankosai in Mango. He interacted with residents, took note of their concerns, and issued necessary instructions to the relief and rescue teams. During his visit to the Bagunhatu relief shelter, the Deputy Commissioner assessed the arrangements and personally spoke to those taking refuge. He stressed the need for continuous availability of essentials such as food and drinking water, and emphasized special care for children, women, and senior citizens. Addressing the issue of waterlogging, Satyarthi instructed municipal officials to expedite the cleaning of clogged drains and improve water discharge mechanisms to avoid further complications. He directed all departments to maintain 24-hour monitoring of the river levels and remain on high alert for emergency evacuations if the water rises further. All disaster management agencies must stay prepared with sufficient stock of relief materials including boats, motorboats, life jackets, and searchlights, he said. The Deputy Commissioner assured that the administration is fully alert and taking all necessary steps to ensure public safety. He appealed to citizens to remain patient, adhere to official guidelines, and avoid believing in or spreading rumours. For emergency assistance, residents can contact the control room at 0657-2431028. Officials who accompanied the Deputy Commissioner during the inspection included Additional Deputy Commissioner Bhagirath Prasad, Deputy Municipal Commissioner of JNAC Krishna Kumar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of Mango Municipal Corporation Arvind Aggarwal, as well as representatives from Jusco and the Swarnarekha project.

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