Relentless rain hammered western Odisha on Monday, forcing the government to declare holidays for schools in six districts — Nuapada, Kandhamala, Boudhagada, Sambalpur, Balangir, and Subarnapur.
Subarnapur’s District Collector ordered closure of all schools and colleges after forecasts of very heavy rainfall. Boudh administration extended the holiday to schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres while cancelling a joint grievance hearing camp due to continuous downpour.
Sambalpur witnessed heavy showers overnight, leaving several low-lying areas submerged. The District Collector declared holidays for schools under Sambalpur Municipal Corporation and Dhankauda block. Officials conducted late-night inspections, noting water entering homes in multiple localities. Dhankauda block recorded 158.1 mm rainfall, while Durgapali’s SMC New Building area logged 180.5 mm in 24 hours.
In Subarnapur, thunder accompanied heavy showers, creating artificial flood-like conditions. Waterlogging stretched from Jayguru Chowk to Kacheri Square, exposing poor drainage systems.
The depression over south Jharkhand and north interior Odisha continued to fuel widespread rainfall across western and northern districts for the third straight day. Authorities urged residents to remain cautious as the monsoon fury intensified.
