Bhubaneswar, Nov 12: Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari has blamed the alleged failures and neglect of the previous 24-year government for the recurring flood-related challenges in Ganjam district, while defending the state government's response to the recent floods.

Responding to questions over flood management, Pujari said the government had made necessary arrangements based on forecasts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). However, the situation worsened after rainfall exceeded the initial predictions.

He said Ganjam had witnessed unprecedented rainfall, with heavy downpours on the 28th, 29th and 30th triggering severe flooding across the district.

According to the minister, Ganjam recorded 337.6 mm of rainfall over three days, while Patrapur received a staggering 808.4 mm during the same period. The rainfall in Patrapur reached 546 mm in a single day.

Pujari said eight ministers had been assigned responsibilities to oversee flood management and relief operations. He also revealed that discussions had been held with various Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to explore long-term solutions to tackle future flood situations.

Referring to landslides during Cyclone Arnab, the minister said only one person had lost their life in a landslide. He added that the government would conduct a detailed assessment of landslide-prone mountainous areas in Kandhamal and Gajapati districts to strengthen preparedness against such disasters.

Targeting the previous BJD government, Pujari alleged that it had failed to address critical disaster-management concerns during its 24 years in power. He cited casualties from previous natural disasters, stating that 45 people died during Cyclone Phailin in 2013, 72 during Cyclone Titli in 2018, and 65 during Cyclone Fani.

The minister maintained that the present government was prioritising its 'zero casualty' approach in disaster management. He accused the opposition of attempting to shift blame to the current government to conceal its own failures.

Pujari also challenged opposition leaders to come forward with facts and figures, assuring them that the government would respond to their allegations in the Assembly.

He urged the opposition to present evidence during the upcoming Assembly session, stating that the government was ready to provide a detailed response on the floor of the House.