Torrential monsoon rains and back-to-back floods have wreaked havoc in Kendrapara district’s Aali block, leaving thousands of farmers in deep distress.
According to local sources, paddy crops across more than 10,000 hectares in 34 panchayats have been completely destroyed due to waterlogging.
The rising water levels in rivers such as Chitrotpala, Luna, Karandia, Gobari, and Brahmani have triggered widespread flooding, submerging vast stretches of agricultural land. Many farmers, who had taken loans to cultivate their fields, now face severe financial and emotional hardship.
“I borrowed money from the bank to grow paddy, but the floods washed away everything. I have no idea how I’ll repay the loan,” lamented a farmer from Aali block.
The crisis isn’t limited to Kendrapara. Farmers in Balasore, Bhadrak, and Jajpur districts are also grappling with similar losses. News18 Odia reports that lakhs of hectares have been affected across northern Odisha due to excessive rainfall and inadequate flood control infrastructure.
Despite efforts by the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), farmers say relief measures are insufficient. They are demanding immediate compensation, loan waivers, and long-term flood mitigation plans.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the state government has announced schemes for compensation and debt relief. However, farmers are urging swift implementation.
With recurring natural disasters impacting agriculture year after year, locals are calling for permanent solutions such as embankment strengthening and resilient infrastructure. The demand for sustainable flood management in Kendrapara is growing louder.
