Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: A significant area in Odisha's Balasore district experienced flash floods following heavy rainfall induced by Cyclone Dana, an official reported on Saturday.
Intense rainfall in the Similipal hills of the neighboring Mayurbhanj district caused water levels to rise in the Budhabalang, Sono, and Kansabansa rivers within Balasore.
Preliminary assessments by revenue officials identified Oupada, Soro, Khaira, Simulia, Bahanaga, Remuna, and Sadar as the most affected blocks.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated that there is currently no flood emergency in the state, noting that the Budhabalanga River is not above the danger mark, but officials are monitoring the situation closely.
The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services reported that 10 individuals stranded in Katha Sangada, Remuna, were rescued by local fire service teams on October 26.
After a review meeting in Balasore, Panchayat and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik assured that the state government is working diligently to restore normalcy in the affected areas, confirming that no casualties have been reported in Balasore due to the cyclone.
Meanwhile, Development Commissioner Anu Garg held a review meeting at the flood control cell of Secha Sadan, instructing nodal officers to collaborate with district officials to manage potential flood control measures.