Flood threat: Schools, Anganwadi centres to remain shut in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj

In view of the forecast for heavy rainfall and the rising threat of floods, the Mayurbhanj district administration has announced the closure of all schools for the day. The district Collector has declared a one-day holiday for all government and private schools across the district as a precautionary measure.

In addition to schools, all Anganwadi centers in the district will remain closed for the next three days, according to official sources. The decision comes as the region braces for intense rainfall that may exacerbate the flood situation already brewing due to swelling rivers and upstream water release.

Meanwhile, Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari has confirmed that the department is on high alert in anticipation of possible floods. 

Also Read: Flood threat looms over Odisha’s Balasore,  Mayurbhanj amid incessant rainfall

The water level in both the Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga rivers continues to rise, raising concern among authorities and residents alike. Complicating the situation, excess water from an under-construction dam in neighbouring Jharkhand is reportedly flowing into the Budhabalanga River, further increasing the flood risk in Odisha’s northern districts.

Minister Pujari further stated that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is in communication with the Chief Minister of Jharkhand regarding the situation and has urged coordination to manage water release from upstream reservoirs.

NDRF, ODRAF TEAMS DEPLOYED

To tackle the evolving flood situation, teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the state fire services have already been deployed to vulnerable areas. The minister also informed that medical teams have been kept on standby and are fully prepared to respond to any emergencies.

With both natural forces and administrative efforts converging, all eyes remain on the rain-bearing clouds and river gauges in the coming hours. The district authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors, avoid low-lying areas, and follow advisories issued by the administration.