Bhubaneswar, July 27: Steady light to moderate rainfall over the past few days has triggered floods in six districts of Odisha — Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Sundergarh, and Keonjhar — affecting over 11,000 people. More than 1,000 residents have been relocated to nine relief camps set up in Balasore and Mayurbhanj.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Deoranjan Kumar Singh reviewed the situation through a virtual meeting with district collectors and Water Resources Department officials.
District administrations have ramped up rescue and relief operations, ensuring the timely distribution of aid and prioritizing the safety of those affected.
According to SRC Singh, rescue deployments in Balasore include five ODRAF teams, one NDRF unit, and 26 fire service squads. Mayurbhanj has one ODRAF team and 23 fire units. Bhadrak is being served by one ODRAF, one NDRF, and 13 fire squads, while Jajpur has one ODRAF and 14 fire units. Altogether, 106 boats are currently engaged in rescue and relief efforts.
While river levels are receding across the state, the Subarnarekha River in Balasore remains a concern. Authorities have stepped up night patrolling in vulnerable areas.
Efforts are also underway to provide clean drinking water, ensure water purification in forest regions, and stock adequate anti-venom supplies. Cooked meals will be distributed as required until conditions normalize.
