Odisha Intensifies Urban Flood Response, Plans Statewide Drainage Master Plan

Bhubaneswar: With several urban areas reeling under waterlogging following heavy rainfall, the Odisha Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department has intensified flood response measures by deploying emergency teams, strengthening field-level monitoring and accelerating drainage operations. The department has also announced plans to prepare a comprehensive drainage master plan to address recurring urban flooding.

Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mahapatra said all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) have been directed to remain on high alert, with officials working round the clock to restore normalcy in flood-affected areas. He said the leave of officers and employees engaged in flood management has been cancelled, while a 24-hour control room has been activated to monitor the situation and coordinate emergency response.

The emergency measures are focused on districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak and Jajpur, where heavy rainfall has led to widespread waterlogging. ULBs have been instructed to deploy additional pumps, machinery and manpower to drain out stagnant water from roads, residential areas and other affected locations. Cleaning of drains, culverts and drainage channels has also been intensified to improve water flow.

The department has directed local bodies to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential services, including safe drinking water, cooked food, dry rations and lighting in affected areas. District administrations have also been asked to provide immediate assistance to residents and evacuate people from vulnerable locations wherever necessary.

Dr. Mahapatra said the H&UD Department is working in close coordination with the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, district administrations and other agencies under the guidance of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to ensure timely rescue, relief and restoration measures.

Looking beyond the immediate crisis, the Minister announced that the state government will prepare a “Strong Drainage Master Plan” for all Urban Local Bodies to provide a lasting solution to urban flooding. The proposed plan will assess natural drainage patterns, existing infrastructure, rainfall trends, water-holding capacity and future urban expansion before implementing phased projects for the construction and upgradation of drainage networks.

“The government’s priority is not only to provide immediate relief during the present flood situation but also to build sustainable urban infrastructure capable of preventing recurring waterlogging,” Dr. Mahapatra said.

The department reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens through prompt emergency response while strengthening Odisha’s urban drainage systems for long-term resilience against floods.