The flood situation in Odisha has turned critical, particularly in the northern districts, with five districts and 46 blocks affected.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that three people have lost their lives so far.
According to official data, rising waters in the Baitarani, Budhabalanga, Salandi, and Jalaka rivers have inundated 1,465 villages across 304 gram panchayats, submerging 8,387 hectares of farmland and impacting 3.8 lakh people.
To aid flood victims, 236 relief camps have been established. District administrations have declared holidays for schools and colleges in affected areas, while the government has cancelled leave for all officials to ensure full participation in relief operations.
The worst‑hit districts include Jajpur, Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Kendujhar, and Mayurbhanj, with Sambalpur also reporting damage. Rivers remain above danger level, raising fears of further inundation.
Minister Pujari chaired a high‑level review meeting with Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Revenue Secretary Aravind Padhee, and senior officials, directing all possible measures to tackle the crisis.
The government has assured that every effort is being made to protect lives and property, with relief and rescue operations continuing across flood‑hit regions.
