Panic has gripped the residents of Palakatu village under Sorada block in Ganjam district as the Rushikulya River continues to erode its banks and inch every day dangerously close to the settlement, some locals alleged on Sunday.

Also Read: ‘Our villages are sinking’: Budhabalanga River erosion threatens at least 300 families in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj

Following the impact of cyclone Montha, a heavy inflow of floodwater has allegedly altered the course of the river, which is now flowing toward the village.

It is said that nearly 50 acres of agricultural land have already been swallowed by the river. The strong current has also washed away a lift irrigation (LI) project structure, including its motor and three electricity utility poles.

Locals say the riverbank soil is gradually collapsing,

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