Did dam operations worsen Ganjam floods! Odisha Chief Secretary reveals the facts

Bhubaneswar, Nov 11: Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg has addressed concerns and questions surrounding the recent heavy rainfall, flooding, and dam management in Ganjam district.

Speaking to reporters after a review meeting at the State Relief Commissioner's (SRC) office, she presented detailed information on the unprecedented weather event and the government's response.

According to the Chief Secretary, Patrapur in Ganjam recorded a staggering 546 mm of rainfall in a single day, while the district experienced extremely heavy rainfall for three consecutive days.

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The rainfall intensity surpassed even the precipitation recorded during the cyclone-related weather event of 2013, resulting in severe flood conditions across several parts of the district.

“The flood situation was primarily driven by the enormous volume of water flowing from the catchment areas,” clarified Anu Garg while responding to concerns over dam operations during the flood.

“Only about 10 per cent of the incoming water entered the reservoirs, while nearly 90 per cent flowed directly through rivers and natural channels,” she explained.

The Chief Secretary emphasized that dam safety remained the administration's top priority throughout the crisis.

Dam gates were opened in a phased manner as per established protocols, and all operating procedures and safety guidelines were strictly followed during water management operations.

“Despite the intensity of the disaster, no loss of life was reported,” noted the Chief Secretary. She credited timely preparedness, coordinated administrative action, and effective disaster management measures for preventing casualties.

Following the floods, the government launched restoration and relief operations on a war footing. Power supply and drinking water services in affected areas were restored, while damaged infrastructure was repaired on priority. Authorities also continued relief distribution and support measures for affected residents.

“The unprecedented rainfall posed a major challenge for the administration, but swift response efforts helped restore normalcy in many affected areas,” she said.

She reiterated that relief, rehabilitation, and infrastructure restoration remain key priorities as the government continues to assist flood-hit communities across Ganjam district.