Bhubaneswar, Oct 4: In the wake of the devastating landslide in Gajapati district, the Odisha government has announced a comprehensive master plan to identify and mitigate landslide-prone zones across the state’s hilly regions.

The move comes after two individuals were tragically buried under debris during a massive landslide that struck the area.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated that the government is taking proactive steps to prevent future incidents. “We will identify vulnerable zones and implement measures to ensure that falling rocks do not result in loss of life,” he said.

The minister also directed district collectors to assess and elevate low-lying roads that frequently submerge during heavy rainfall, especially in regions like Malkangiri. The goal is to maintain uninterrupted connectivity even during adverse weather conditions.

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Compensation procedures have already begun, with officials instructed to submit damage assessment reports promptly. The government has assured that relief will be provided within 24 hours of receiving the final reports.

Recent low-pressure-induced rainfall has severely impacted districts like Gajapati, Rayagada, and Kalahandi. In Rayagada, several villages were evacuated due to water intrusion, while nine villages in Kalahandi were surrounded by floodwaters. The administration provided essential aid to affected residents.

Gajapati emerged as the worst-hit district, with one confirmed fatality due to a rockfall and another death pending post-mortem confirmation. The landslide buried two individuals under mud and stone throughout the night, prompting an intensive rescue operation.

Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, Minister of Commerce & Transport, Steel & Mines, personally monitored the rescue efforts for two days. Authorities have now brought the situation under control, but the incident has highlighted the urgent need for long-term disaster preparedness in Odisha’s mountainous regions.