Odisha Water Resources Department Steps Up Flood Preparedness Amid Low-Pressure Forecast

Bhubaneswar: With a low-pressure system likely to develop over the southeast Bay of Bengal, the Odisha Water Resources Department has stepped up preparedness measures to manage possible heavy rainfall and flood situations across the state.

A high-level virtual review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Engineer-in-Chief, Water Resources, Er. Dillip Kumar Rout, to assess the potential impact of the developing weather system and review reservoir management strategies.

The meeting was attended by the Engineer-in-Chief, Planning & Designs; Engineer-in-Chief, Schemes & Monitoring; Chief Engineer, RBVN; Additional Chief Engineers and concerned Superintending Engineers.

The officials discussed the anticipated rainfall, possible rise in river water levels, expected reservoir inflows and measures required for strategic reservoir management during the weather event.

Particular attention was given to the increased water storage in eight medium reservoirs in Ganjam district and two in Gajapati district following Cyclone Arnab. The prevailing storage levels in these reservoirs were reviewed in the context of the evolving weather forecast.

The meeting also finalised a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide reservoir operations and preparedness measures during the upcoming weather event.

Emphasis was laid on continuous monitoring of reservoir water levels, coordination among different divisions and timely decision-making to minimise potential flood risks. Field-level officials were instructed to remain alert and maintain heightened vigilance to respond promptly to any emerging situation.

The department has stressed anticipatory planning and coordinated action to ensure public safety, protect critical water infrastructure and minimise risks to downstream communities.

Continuous monitoring of the weather situation and preparedness at all levels will remain a priority as the low-pressure system develops over the Bay of Bengal.