Rain fury in Odisha districts; Malkangiri receives over 200mm of rain; SRC reviews situation with Collectors

Several parts of Odisha experienced heavy rainfall activities triggered by depression. There are reports of waterlogging and flash floods in some parts of Malkangiri district, prompting the Odisha government to review the situation.

As per official sources, Malkangiri received an average rainfall of 190 mm, followed by 70 mm in Nabarangpur and 67.4 mm in Koraput in the past 24 hours. Khairput block in Malkangiri district received the highest rainfall of 221.2 mm in the last 24 hours.

Four blocks (Chitrakonda, Korkunda, Khairput & Kalimela) have received more than 200mm rainfall. The Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) also reviewed the situation with the district Collectors.

As reported by the Malkangiri Collector, some roads and bridges are submerged in some places following heavy rainfall under the influence of the Depression over Bay of Bengal.

“Poteru river near Poteru (NH 326) submerged, Kanyashram bridge and Challaguda bridge submerged. Podia - Kalimela road affected,” said Odisha government in a release.

The SRC has directed Collectors to take following action immediately.

- Strictly prohibit movement of vehicles in submerged roads/ bridges till water recedes.

- Local police along with the local officers must be at site to regulate traffic.

- People of low lying villages shall be evacuated if required.

- Arrangement for cooked food for evacuated people.

Also Read | Depression Triggers Heavy Rainfall in Different Parts of Odisha; Situation Worse in Malkangiri

During the month of July, Odisha has deficit average rainfall of 21.9% and the current rainfall due to depression shall minimize the deficit rainfall and help the farmers for cultivation. The situation is under control, said senior officials of Odisha government.