Odisha Floods: Three Dead, Over Two Lakh People Affected

Heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers have triggered widespread flooding across Odisha, claiming three lives and affecting more than two lakh people, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said on Wednesday.

The worst-hit districts include Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj and Kendujhar, with floods affecting 44 blocks, 243 gram panchayats and 748 villages.

Rain disrupted normal life in Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Nuapada, Balangir, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Gajapati and Malkangiri.

Three deaths were reported in Kendujhar district. A minor drowned in floodwaters, an elderly man died after a wall collapsed, and Fire Services personnel Chandan Pattanik was electrocuted while carrying out a dewatering operation.

Authorities evacuated nearly 30,000 people from low-lying areas and shifted them to relief centres. They served cooked meals, stocked baby food and arranged special facilities for women and elderly people.

Waterlogging persists in 226 villages, although water levels have started receding in several areas. Many families in Balasore have begun returning home.

Officials are monitoring fresh rainfall in Chhattisgarh’s upper catchment areas, which could affect river levels.

Two gates of the Hirakud Dam remain open, with the reservoir operating within the safe level.

The government has started assessing damage to houses and providing assistance to affected families.

Authorities have placed Bargarh, Balangir, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri and Rayagada on high alert. They have deployed 17 NDRF and ODRAF teams along with nearly 60 Fire Services teams for rescue and relief operations.

Pujari urged residents to avoid flooded areas, follow official advisories, move to relief centres when directed and dial 112 in emergencies.

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