Relentless monsoon rains have wreaked havoc in western Odisha, washing away the Tetalkhuti culvert in Nuapada district’s Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, effectively cutting off rural connectivity between key villages such as Sunabeda and Gatibeda in Komna block.
The collapse occurred late Wednesday night, leaving local residents stranded and raising alarm over emergency accessibility, especially in the absence of an alternate route. Authorities are yet to initiate restoration work.
Weather Warnings Worsen Outlook:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across Odisha due to an emerging low-pressure system over the northern Bay of Bengal.
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Red alerts have been issued for Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar for Friday
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Orange alerts for Koraput and Malkangiri
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Yellow warnings cover 20 other districts, with risks of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds
Rainfall Damage Elsewhere:
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Mayurbhanj (July 7): Jamughat bridge submerged, cutting off the Udala–Balasore route
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Jharsuguda: Road near Baghadihi bridge washed away; police deployed for commuter safety
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Kandhamal: Gumadi River floodwaters destroyed a diversion bridge near Baliguda, isolating Daringbadi villages
The state administration has directed all districts to remain on high alert. Emergency teams are being mobilized, and precautionary measures are underway in flood-prone and landslide-risk areas.
