Bhubaneswar, Aug 26: Odisha Governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal Kambhampati on Tuesday conducted a comprehensive review of the flood situation across the state and assessed the government's preparedness to tackle potential challenges.
Chairing a high-level meeting at the Raj Bhavan conference hall, the Governor emphasized the need for zero casualties and called upon the Revenue and Disaster Management Department to remain vigilant in safeguarding human lives.
"The best thing we can do is to prioritise human life," the Governor said, urging proactive measures to protect people in flood-affected regions.
He also commended the state government's ongoing efforts in disaster response and relief operations.
The review meeting was attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Additional Chief Secretary and Special Relief Commissioner Deo Ranjan Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor Roopa Roshan Sahoo, Additional Special Relief Commissioner Manish Agrawal, and senior officials from the Water Resources Department, including the Engineer-in-Chief and Chief Engineer.
Officials briefed the Governor on the current situation in flood-affected districts such as Balasore, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, and Sundargarh. Updates were provided on flood monitoring mechanisms, advisories to district administrations, river basin conditions, readiness of disaster response forces, shelter arrangements, and relief distribution.
Appreciating the department’s tireless work, the Governor praised their efforts in delivering essential services during the crisis. He also proposed long-term strategies to mitigate future flood risks.
Among the suggestions were the construction of barrages to divert surplus water to village tanks, making better use of floodwater for irrigation and rural needs.
"If surplus water is redirected to nearby tanks, it can serve irrigation and other purposes, while also reducing flood threats," he noted.
Minister Suresh Pujari, speaking during the meeting, assured that the department is maintaining round-the-clock vigilance and acknowledged the commitment and dedication of both officials and field personnel in responding to the ongoing situation.
