Jajpur, Jul 30: In a heartwarming display of resilience amid devastating floods, an Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) team helped a groom reach his wedding venue by boat after floodwaters cut off his village from the outside world. The unusual wedding journey took place in Jajpur district, where severe flooding has disrupted normal life.

The incident occurred in Similia panchayat under Jajpur block, which has been completely inundated due to the overflowing Budha River, a tributary of the Baitarani. With roads submerged and transportation brought to a standstill, the panchayat remained isolated, putting the scheduled wedding in jeopardy.

The groom, Minjan Padhi, younger son of Krushna Chandra Padhi of Maid village, was set to marry on Wednesday. Faced with the possibility of cancelling the ceremony due to the flood situation, both families sought assistance from the district administration to ensure the wedding could take place at the auspicious time.

Responding promptly, an ODRAF team reached the groom's village and safely ferried the groom, his family members and the wedding procession across the floodwaters in a rescue boat. After reaching the main road, the groom continued his journey by car to Bhuvan in Dhenkanal district, where the wedding ceremony was held as planned.

The unique rescue operation has drawn widespread appreciation, highlighting the dedication of disaster response teams in helping people overcome extraordinary challenges even during a severe flood crisis.