Post flood operation takes centre stage

The state government also submitted an additional memorandum with the Centre today seeking an assistance of Rs 1,144.46 crore for the damage caused in the second spell of flood in Baitarani, Brahmani, Subarnarekha, Budhabalang rivers and their tributaries.

Earlier the state government had sought Rs 2,120.92 crore towards flood damage assessment in the Mahanadi river system, Special Relief Commissioner P K Mohapatra said.

At least 40 people have died in the second spell of flood while there are reports of two persons missing in Mayurbhanj and Kendrapada districts, he said.

A total of 730 boats were deployed for rescue and relief operation in different districts, while four IAF helicopters were today used for airdropping of food packets in flood- affected areas of Jajpur and Kendrapada districts.

Free kitchens have been closed in all the districts except Jajpur and Kendrapada, the SRC said.