While several districts of Odisha are reeling from flood, the State capital is no exception. Many areas on the outskirts of the city are facing water-logging affecting normal life.
As per sources, water from Daya river entered Sundarpada, Kantilo, Balipatna and other localities on the outskirts of the city bringing woes for the residents.
Many areas remained inundated after floodwater started gushing since last night. Residents alleged that they are facing drinking water shortage as power supply was disconnected.
Some people have vacated their houses and moved to safety while fire services personnel evacuated elderly people, women, children and patients to safer places.
“We are facing many problems. The power connection was snapped for over 24 hours now after transformer was inundated. The flood water has entered our houses. We do not have food and safe drinking water,” said a woman resident of Kantilo.
“As we were left with no water and food after power cut, we called up the rescue team and now are moving to safe places from where we will head to our native place in Jaipur. Snakes and other reptiles have occupied our houses,” said another resident.
Meanwhile, experts said urban flooding in the capital city is not a new phenomenon and attributed the deluge to construction of building without proper plan, encroachments, faulty drainage system among others.
Anam Sepapati, Sarpanch of Pradhansahi panchayat, said, “The drainage system is not adequate to release flood water. Besides, encroachments have obstructed the flow of water causing the deluge.”
Piyush Rout, urban planner, said, “Development of towns and construction activities should be taken up keeping in view the geographical position. However, apartments have been constructed in low-lying areas ignoring such conditions. Hence, flooding is unavoidable.”