Odisha Flood Alert / Cuttack Collector Issues Prohibitory Orders Amid Rising Waters of Mahanadi River

Cuttack, July 28: Cuttack district administration on Tuesday imposed sweeping prohibitory orders to safeguard public safety amid rising floodwaters in the Mahanadi river, officials said. With heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas causing water levels at the Mundali barrage here to surge rapidly, officials fear the river may reach its peak level by tomorrow night.

District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, also Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), invoked Section 34 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to enforce restrictions across vulnerable zones. The measures aim to prevent accidents and ensure effective flood management as low-lying areas brace for possible inundation.

Under the order, public entry to all ghats along the Mahanadi and its tributaries has been strictly prohibited. Bathing, swimming, boating, fishing, and even photography or taking selfies near riverbanks, barrages, and embankments have been banned. Gatherings, fairs, and public meetings at the Baliyatra ground and other flood-prone areas have also been suspended.

Standing on bridges, embankments, or riverbanks to watch floodwaters has been barred, with only emergency services and flood management officials permitted access. Temples and religious sites near riverbanks will remain closed to devotees until further notice.
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Fishing activities in the Mahanadi, its tributaries, and adjoining reservoirs have been suspended, with advisories issued to fishermen to avoid venturing into the waters. Residents of flood-prone villages, particularly farmers and dairy owners, have been urged to immediately shift their livestock to higher ground or designated flood shelters.

Vehicular and pedestrian movement across submerged roads, culverts, and bridges has also been prohibited. Violators will face strict legal action under Sections 51–60 of the Disaster Management Act and other applicable laws.

The administration has appealed to citizens to strictly adhere to safety guidelines and cooperate with officials. With floodwaters expected to rise further, the restrictions are seen as critical to preventing mishaps and ensuring coordinated disaster response.