Odisha Govt Orders Evacuation as Over 1 Lakh Hit by Floods

Odisha, India, is grappling with severe floods, prompting a large-scale evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas. Officials reported on Tuesday that over 100,000 people have been affected, with more than 23,000 already moved to safety. The situation is particularly critical in the northern districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, and Jajpur, where rising river levels, caused by heavy rainfall from a deep depression, pose a significant threat.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari described the next 24 hours as crucial for these districts, noting that water levels in several rivers are rising alarmingly. Other districts, including Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Sundergarh, and Sambalpur, have also been identified as vulnerable. Teams from ODRAF, NDRF, and the fire service are actively engaged in rescue and relief efforts, assisting elderly individuals, women, and children. Relief centers are providing cooked and dry food, along with baby food, while police are ensuring the security of evacuated homes and properties.

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The next 24 hours are very crucial for the districts of Balasore, Bhadrak and Jajpur.

Chief Secretary Anu Garg stated that senior IAS officers have been deployed to oversee flood management, emphasizing the government's preparedness. Schools and educational institutions in affected districts have been closed to ensure student safety and to accommodate evacuated populations. While major rivers like the Mahanadi and Subarnarekha are reportedly managed, the swollen Jalaka, Salandi, and Baitarani rivers have caused inundation in the northern districts.

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Let's remain alert and not panic. The government is fully prepared to safeguard the lives and property of the people.