Devastating Floods Worsen in Southern Odisha: Authorities Intensify Rescue Efforts

The flood situation in southern Odisha, particularly in Koraput and Malkangiri, has worsened due to continuous heavy rainfall. Odisha Chief Minister has appointed three senior officials to monitor the crisis. ODRAF teams were deployed for rescue operations, evacuating over 1700 people from affected areas.

The flood situation in southern Odisha, especially in Koraput and Malkangiri, has escalated due to relentless heavy rainfall. In response, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, following consultations with Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujhari, has designated three senior officials to closely monitor the evolving crisis.

Sundhansu Sarangi, Director General of Police (Fire Services), Bishnupada Sethi, Secretary of the Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department, and Charan Meena, Deputy Inspector General of Police (Southern Division), have been tasked with overseeing and aiding the district administration in Malkangiri. Special Relief Commissioner DK Singh reported widespread rainfall in Malkangiri on Monday.

The office of the SRC disclosed that Malkangiri Block recorded the highest rainfall of 253 mm, with other blocks like Malkangiri, Chitrakonda, and Khairput registering over 200 mm of rainfall. Several blocks in Malkangiri and Kotaput received over 100 mm. Floodwaters overflowed bridges between Pangam and Motu Road in Malkangiri.

Six Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams were deployed in Malkangiri, with two teams already engaged in rescue operations. Over 60 villagers, including two farmers, were rescued, and more than 1700 people were evacuated to shelter centers from low-lying areas. According to the SRC, 560 villages in Malkangiri and Koraput districts were affected.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in areas like Ganjam, Kandhamal, Nayagarh, Khordha, Bolangir, Boudh, Koraput, Nabarangapur, and Puri. The IMD has issued a red alert warning for these districts. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)