Don’t underestimate power of flowing water: Odisha SRC appeals to people

With Odisha all set to experience high flood in Subarnarekha river, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena on Sunday appealed to people to remain cautious while dealing with flowing water.

Jena’s comments assume significance in the backdrop of the recent incident in which two persons died after their car was swept away in a canal at Kuchinda area in Sambalpur on Saturday.

Similarly, a boat ferrying around 30 passengers was reportedly washed away due to strong currents in River Mahanadi in Mahakalpada of Kendrapada district yesterday. The SRC said that it (boat getting washed away with 30 passengers on board) was one of the most harrowing experiences of nearly four hours. However, all of the passengers were rescued by coordinated efforts of Marine Police, Fire Services and other administrative officials.

Urging people not to try to cross road, bridges or culverts where floodwater is flowing, the SRC said, “Let's not underestimate the power of flowing water. Even 6 inches of water can cause frictionless between the tyres of the vehicle and the road. People need to understand this, especially youth,” said Jena.

According to Jena, four persons were also rescued recently after a car got swept away in the Mahanadi floodwater in Athagarh of Cuttack district. All of them were rescued after a long operation that lasted for nearly three hours.