Minister warns of possible drought in many districts of state

Bhubaneswar: A possible drought like situation cannot be ruled out if several pockets of Odisha do not receive adequate rainfall in next couple of days.

Moreover, Odisha government is closely monitoring the situation while alternative arrangements are being made to protect the standing crops in 30 blocks of 14 districts, said Revenue Minister Maheswar Mohanty after an emergency review meeting held on Saturday.

According to Mohanty, the drought like situation has cropped up in 40,000 hectares of agricultural land in 30 blocks due to scanty rainfall.

“A real picture will only emerge after collectors submit panchayat wise report. They have asked to submit a detailed report within a week,” said Mohanty.

Keeping in view the situation, it has been decided to replace the defunct lift irrigation points with new ones, arrangements to supply water to agricultural lands through various canals and uninterrupted power supply.

“We will assess the situation at another high level meeting to be held on October 10,” Mohanty added.