Odisha Puts Flood Response on Alert as Baitarani Swells After Heavy Rain

Bhubaneswar: With continuous rainfall pushing up the water level of the Baitarani River, the Odisha Government on Saturday reviewed flood preparedness across vulnerable districts, directing officials to remain on high alert and ensure swift evacuation, relief and rescue measures if the situation worsens.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari chaired a high-level meeting at the Office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), where officials assessed the river’s current status, flood forecasts, preparedness of district administrations and the availability of emergency resources.

The review covered likely flood-affected areas, evacuation plans, functioning of shelter homes, deployment of rescue teams and the stock position of relief materials. Officials were instructed to maintain close surveillance over the river and respond promptly to any emerging situation.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Pujari said the State Government was fully prepared to tackle any flood-related emergency and that the overall situation remained under control. He said all district administrations had been directed to extend immediate assistance to people requiring evacuation or other support.

While the water level of the Baitarani has increased at Anandapur and Akhuapada, the Minister said it continues to remain below the danger mark. He added that the Mahanadi, Devi, Jalaka, Kushabhadra, Rushikulya and Ib rivers were also flowing below warning levels despite persistent rainfall across several parts of Odisha.

The Minister said there had been no reports of significant loss of life or major damage to houses due to the ongoing rains. However, district administrations have been asked to immediately assess crop losses reported from some areas and submit damage reports. He directed officials to ensure compensation is released to affected farmers within 24 hours after completion of the assessment process.

As part of precautionary measures, the government also reviewed preparedness for possible snakebite cases that often increase after floodwaters recede. Hospitals have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of anti-venom and remain ready to handle emergencies.

Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil informed that sufficient quantities of polythene sheets and other relief materials have been stocked, while ODRAF teams are on standby for immediate deployment. He added that early warning messages are being regularly disseminated to residents in vulnerable areas.

Pujari further said that after the conclusion of the Rath Yatra, the State Government would convene a comprehensive review meeting with all 30 district administrations to strengthen preparedness for floods and other monsoon-related disasters during the remainder of the rainy season.

Senior officials of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department attended the meeting, while the Collectors of Jajpur and Bhadrak, along with other district officials, participated through virtual mode.