Schools shut, connectivity snapped in Odisha’s Malkangiri as rains submerge NH-326, bridges

Malkangiri district has plunged into chaos following heavy rainfall that has submerged key roads and bridges, disrupting traffic and cutting off links with neighbouring states. Incessant rainfall triggered by a fresh low-pressure area on Sunday submerged key roads and bridges, paralysing connectivity with neighbouring states.

Sources reported that the situation worsened as floodwaters rose up to five to six feet over major bridges, bringing traffic on National Highway-326 and other arterial routes to a complete standstill. In view of the situation, schools have been ordered shut in the district for today.

Highways Flooded, Vehicles Stranded

Reports stated that the National Highway-326 near Poteru and Kankarakonda has gone under four to five feet of water, while the Kanyashram bridge on the Kalimela–Podia route was submerged nearly six feet.

The downpour also left hundreds of vehicles stranded on either side of the submerged stretches. Connectivity from Malkangiri to Motu, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana has been completely snapped, causing major travel and transport disruptions.

Floodwaters Enter Homes

Several areas of Malkangiri town also reported flooding late last night, with rainwater entering homes and forcing residents to shift to safer areas. Reports mentioned waterlogging across low-lying residential zones, adding to the distress caused by blocked roads.

With the India Meteorological Department issuing a red warning for the district, Malkangiri Collector has ordered the closure of all schools and Anganwadi centres till Tuesday. The precautionary step comes as heavier showers are expected through the day.

IMD: Low Pressure to Bring More Rain

The IMD has attributed the situation to a fresh low-pressure system that developed over the Bay of Bengal between north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha coast on Sunday.

The system is likely to intensify into a depression and continue to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across southern and western districts until August 20. Winds between 30 and 40 kmph are also forecast, further raising the risk of flooding and damage.