Natural Calamities / Cyclone Arnab aftermath: Landslide in Ganjam leaves over 10 feared missing

Brahmapur, Oct 31: A major landslide triggered by heavy rainfall in the aftermath of Cyclone Arnab has reportedly left more than 10 people missing in Gidipabali village in Odisha’s Ganjam district, official sources said on Saturday.

According to the sources, the landslide occurred at around 2 a.m. last night when a section of a nearby hill collapsed, sending large volumes of mud and rocks hurtling into the village. Residents said the debris swept through the settlement within minutes, raising fears that several houses may have been buried under the rubble.

Residents Trapped

Family members of the affected villagers said some residents managed to escape their homes shortly after noticing signs of the collapse. However, several others were allegedly trapped inside their houses as mud and stones engulfed parts of the village.

Witnesses recounted harrowing scenes of survival and separation. In one instance, a woman reportedly escaped with her two young children, while her husband remains untraceable. Several other families are also searching for missing relatives.

Villagers fear that more than 10 people are still unaccounted for following the disaster.

Rescue Efforts

Some survivors reportedly fled through forest routes and, after walking for nearly two days, reached Sipaiju village in neighbouring Kandhamal district.

Following information about the incident, Fire Services personnel approached the affected region from the Kandhamal side and carried out rescue operations under difficult conditions. Authorities have so far rescued 57 people from two villages affected by the landslide.
Also Read: President Murmu Speaks to Odisha CM Amid Flood Havoc as Cyclone Arnab Leaves 1.5 Lakh Marooned

Relief Measures

The rescued persons have been shifted to Khilapanga village, where they are undergoing health check-ups. Officials from the local administration and health department have reached the area and are providing medical assistance and other essential support.

With reports suggesting that more than 10 people are still missing from Gidipabali village, concern is mounting among residents and families awaiting news of their loved ones. Rescue efforts are expected to continue as authorities assess the extent of the damage caused by the landslide.