Balasore/ Baripada, July 1: The flood situation in Odisha’s Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts has begun to improve as water levels in the Subarnarekha River gradually recede, bringing some relief to residents. However, several villages remain waterlogged, and the plight of affected communities continues to deepen in the aftermath.

In Balasore, while conditions are stabilizing, 15 panchayats in Bhograi and 5 in Baliapal are still surrounded by floodwaters. Relief operations are ongoing, with ODRAF, NDRF, and state government teams deploying speedboats to deliver essential supplies to marooned areas. In Bishnupur panchayat, a young man went missing after being swept away by floodwaters.

The district administration in Balasore has been partially disrupted due to ongoing agitation by the Odisha Administrative Services (OAS) Association, affecting the pace of relief work.

In Mayurbhanj, the flood threat triggered by low-pressure-induced rainfall has largely subsided. Blocks such as Badasahi, Betanati, Shuliapada, Saraskana, Bangiriposhi, and Baripada have seen significant improvement. Still, over 6,470 people across 214 villages in 63 gram panchayats were affected. Nearly 5,000 residents were relocated to shelters during peak flooding and are now returning to rebuild damaged homes.

To prevent post-flood disease outbreaks, medical and veterinary teams have been dispatched to vulnerable areas. Damage assessment is underway, and district officials have assured the people that a comprehensive report will soon be submitted to the state government. The key challenge now lies in swiftly evaluating losses and delivering timely assistance to those affected.

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