The flood situation in Odisha remains critical as continuous rainfall in the upper catchments has kept river levels rising, even as the first wave of floodwaters has yet to fully recede.
Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Rajesh Prabhakar Patil informed on Friday that 52 blocks in six districts are currently under the grip of floods, affecting over two lakh people.
According to the SRC, Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendujhar, Mayurbhanj, and Sundaragada districts have borne the brunt of the deluge. A total of 2,09,687 people have been affected across 170 gram panchayats and 429 villages. Of these, 41,881 residents have been safely evacuated and shifted to relief shelters.
Balasore remains the worst-hit district with 79,443 people affected, followed by Bhadrak (51,560) and Jajpur (46,570). Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as further rainfall is expected to keep pressure on rivers in the region.
Relief and rescue operations are underway, with the state administration working round the clock to provide food, medical aid and safe shelter to those displaced. Officials have urged residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation advisories.
The prolonged spell of heavy monsoon rains continues to test Odisha’s flood preparedness, highlighting the urgent need for sustained monitoring and community support in the affected zones.
