The worst of the flood waters appears to be receding across Odisha, but the human and economic toll is only now coming into sharp focus.
More than 22 districts remain affected, with over eight lakh people impacted by the deluge triggered by relentless rains.
Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari on Sunday told reporters that Balasore, Bhadrak and Jajpur have borne the brunt of the disaster, while parts of Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Khordha and Cuttack have also suffered significant inundation. “The situation is improving as water levels drop. Damage assessment has begun in areas where the flood waters have receded,” the minister said.
Field teams from the agriculture and revenue departments are already on the ground conducting surveys. Reports of collapsed houses have poured in from multiple locations, while vast stretches of farmland – particularly vegetable crops – lie ruined.
Officials have been directed to prepare sensitive, accurate reports of farmers’ losses so that compensation can be processed swiftly. Infrastructure has taken a heavy hit. Power lines, roads and embankments have been damaged, with breaches (ghais) reported at several places.
The Water Resources Department has been instructed to prepare permanent solutions for these vulnerable points. A project report on long-term flood-mitigation infrastructure is also being prepared by district administrations following Saturday’s Cabinet discussion.
On the health and sanitation front, the Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water, Health and Urban Development departments are carrying out disinfection drives. Borewells, ponds, wells and other water sources are being treated to prevent the spread of water-borne diseases.
Reports on damage to Anganwadi centres and primary schools have been sought, and special funds will be released for their restoration.
In a significant boost to relief efforts, the Centre has released the second instalment of the central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) – ₹500 crore – to Odisha. Minister Pujari expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the timely assistance.
While the immediate crisis of rising waters is easing, the real work of rebuilding lives, restoring livelihoods and strengthening flood defences has only just begun. Officials continue to monitor residual waterlogging and ensure that no affected family is left without support.
