The heavy rainfall triggered by the low pressure area over the northwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal has badly affected the normal life across Odisha.
As per the latest forecast, the depression has weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area over Chhattisgarh and adjoining east Madhya Pradesh. It is likely to move west-north westwards before weakening into a low pressure area during next 24 hours.
In Nuapada district, a bridge over Jonk river collapsed following heavy downpour disrupting vehicular communication between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
A portion of Tangana Bandha bridge on Nilagiri-Kaptipada Road in Balasore district caved in owing to the torrential rains. The bridge connecting Balasore and Mayurbhan districts is lying in precarious condition but the concerned authorities are yet to take a call. Two big holes have been created on the 40-ft long bridge bringing communication to a grinding halt on both the sides of the bridge.
Upon being informed, Nilagiri sub-collector and Public Works department officials rushed to the spot and made necessary arrangements to restore communication on that route.
Similarly, traffic was held up on Sambalpur-Bargarh National Highway after landslide caused by heavy rain.
It is being alleged that travelling through National Highway 53 connecting Sambalpur and Bargarh districts has become a risky affair with frequent landslides occurring at Laxmi Dungri Hill. Earlier, landslide occurred in the stretch, but the administration is alleged to have taken no steps for the safety of commuters.
Kandhamal district too reported landslide following heavy downpour. Many trees have got uprooted on Gadiapada ghati near Khajuripada disrupting vehicular services on Khajuripada-Madhapur Road much to the inconvenience of commuters. Many commuters including Phulbani MLA Angada Kanhar got stuck on the road due to landslide. Later workers of Public Works department cleared the debris and concrete from the road.
Moreover, landslide also occurred at Rani Pathar Ghati on Phulbani-Boudh Road causing inconvenience for commuters. National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) cleared the debris from road with the help of JCB machine following which communication on the road was restored.