Heavy rains wash away bridge in Odisha’s Sunabeda Wildlife Zone; IMD forecast sparks concerns

Torrential rainfall in western Odisha continues to wreak havoc, with a bridge collapse in Nuapada district’s Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary cutting off vital rural connectivity.

According to reports, the incident occurred late Wednesday night amid relentless downpours, washing away the Tetalkhuti culvert that connected Sunabeda and Gatibeda villages under Sunabeda panchayat in Komna block.

The loss of the bridge has severed transportation links between several villages, isolating communities already grappling with monsoon-related disruptions.

Authorities have yet to begin restoration work, with locals raising concerns over the lack of an alternative route and the risk of medical and emergency inaccessibility.

Cyclonic System Intensifies Rainfall Threat Across Odisha

The bridge collapse comes as Odisha braces for more heavy rainfall triggered by an active cyclonic circulation over the northern Bay of Bengal.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast the formation of a low-pressure area by Thursday, which is expected to intensify rainfall across large parts of the state through July 27.

A red warning has been issued for Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar districts on Friday, indicating the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall. Orange Alerts are in place for Koraput and Malkangiri, while 20 other districts remain under Yellow Warning for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds.

Flood-Like Conditions Reported from Other Districts

Similar weather-related damages have been reported across Odisha over the past few weeks. On July 7, the Jamughat bridge at Kainsari in Mayurbhanj district was submerged under three feet of floodwater following continuous rainfall in the Similipal region.

The submersion cut off road communication between Udala and Balasore, impacting several panchayats. Despite the risks, residents were seen attempting to cross the waterlogged structure, prompting concern over safety.

In Jharsuguda district’s Laikera area, a section of the road near the Baghadihi bridge was washed away, disrupting all vehicular movement. Police set up temporary tents on either side of the breach to warn commuters of the danger.

Earlier this month, the Gumadi River in Kandhamal district swelled following continuous rain, washing away a temporary diversion bridge near Baliguda. This vital link had served as the only connection for panchayats like Tilori, Budaguda, and Gumikia in Daringbadi block.

Meanwhile, the state administration has urged all district authorities to remain on high alert. Emergency response teams are being mobilised, and precautionary measures are being stepped up in low-lying and landslide-prone areas, stated reports.