Flood situation fully under control in Odisha, says Minister Suresh Pujari after review

With heavy rains triggering a steady rise in water levels of key rivers, the Odisha government has placed Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts on high alert, warning of a potential flood situation. 

According to official sources, rivers such as the Subarnarekha and Budhabalang are witnessing alarming swells, increasing the likelihood of inundation in low-lying areas. 

Continuous rainfall in the catchment areas, particularly in neighbouring Jharkhand, has worsened the situation, prompting authorities to closely monitor river gauges and strengthen embankments where needed.

However, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari on Monday informed that the overall flood situation is under control. IMD has issued red warning for heavy rainfall in mainly two districts- Mayurbhanj and there is a possibility of heavy rainfall downstream as well.

“The dams of Jharkhand like Chandil are incomplete. We are in touch with Jharkhand government over the developments. The water level of Budhabalanga river is on a declining trend while Subarnarekha is on the rise. There is no rainfall as of now. However, there is a possibility of rainfall in the coming days. The low-lying pockets like Jaleswar and other areas will be affected for some time,” said Pujari.

According to the Minister, there would have been a delay in discharge if the sea conditions were rough. We hope that the water level of Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga rivers will start receding soon. Dry and cooked food is being provided to people in affected villages, he said.

Odisha Government in Alert Mode

Central Range RDC and other officials are in high alert mode. ODRAF teams are deployed at Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj and Balasore. An additional two teams from Cuttack are being sent to Balasore. The Fire Services Department personnel, equipped with advanced gadgets, are carrying out relief and rescue operations, informed the Minister.

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The rescue operations saw some issues at night on Sunday. However, all the operations have been intensified in the affected areas on Monday morning.

“As of now, the situation is gradually improving. As another low pressure is likely, it may trigger rains in Jharkhand and Odisha might see an inflow of water. However, the Odisha government’s various departments are in alert mode. There have been breaches in some parts, but there is no need to panic,” said Pujari.

Pujari also admitted that agriculture has been adversely affected. The Odisha government is committed, and the department will provide adequate compensation for the loss, he assured.

“Patrolling is underway in affected villages, and we urge people to move to safer places as per the instructions of the local administration,” Pujari added.