Bhubaneswar, Sept 24: The impact of the deep depression that crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kalingapatnam has intensified the rain situation in southern Odisha, with four bridges submerged in Malkangiri district following incessant rainfall.
Floodwater is flowing 3–4 feet above the Kankurukonda, Kanyashram, MV-90 and MV-96 bridges, disrupting road connectivity between Malkangiri and Kalimela, Motu and Padia.
Several stretches of National Highway 326 have also been affected, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. Police personnel have been deployed near the affected bridges to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
The deep depression crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kalingapatnam at around 11:30 pm on Wednesday. The landfall process continued for nearly three hours, with maximum wind speeds of 65–75 kmph.
During the landfall, the sea reportedly surged inland by nearly five metres. The system has triggered heavy rainfall in Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha, while intermittent rain continues across several parts of the state, including coastal districts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the next 12 hours remain crucial, with heavy rainfall likely to continue until September 26. Authorities have also been alerted about the possibility of flash floods and landslides, particularly in vulnerable areas.
With several districts already witnessing waterlogging and flooding, residents in low-lying and landslide-prone areas have been advised to remain cautious as the weather system continues to affect Odisha.