Flood Fury / Odisha Govt Rushes Drainage Fix to Tackle Waterlogging amid Flood Chaos

Bhubaneswar, Aug 24: Odisha is facing one of its rarest flood situations in decades, with multiple rivers overflowing simultaneously after heavy rainfall.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said, “For the first time in 40-50 years, all rivers in Odisha have witnessed floods together. In Kalahandi alone, 1,300 mm of rainfall was recorded in just two days.”

“Rising water levels in Indravati have inundated several areas. The Chief Minister has announced a ₹1,000 crore package, including input subsidies, seeds, and compensation for all losses,” he added.

Also read: Low-Pressure System Active Over Bay, Heavy Rain Forecast In Odisha

Continuous rainfall has disrupted life in Kalahandi district, flooding rivers and submerging hundreds of hectares of farmland. Water released from Mangalpur dam into Hatinadi has worsened the situation, leaving vast stretches of farmland under water and farmers anxious about crop loss.

In Junagada block, nearly five feet of water has accumulated on the Kuruguda-Murlapadar road, cutting off transport to three panchayats and Golamunda block. Daily bus services to Nuapada and Balangir have stopped, affecting trade, education, and emergency services.

The state government has convened a high-level meeting to address waterlogging after floods. District Collectors have been asked to submit project reports on areas where water drainage has failed and how it can be improved.

Senior officials from the Urban Development and Rural Development departments will attend, with the government promising funds for drainage projects.

Dilip Raut, Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, explained that heavy rainfall due to a low-pressure system has raised water levels in several rivers.

“Nine places recorded over 100 mm rainfall. Baitarani, Brahmani, Subarnarekha, and Salandi are flowing above normal, though levels are expected to recede by evening. Baitarani has caused significant damage in Bari, Ali, and Binjharpur,” said Raut.

“Hirakud dam has opened eight gates, maintaining water at 623 feet. There is no flood in Mahanadi, while Subarnarekha is flowing below warning level,” he noted.

In Baleshwar district, Subarnarekha floods have worsened the plight of residents, with water entering homes and thousands of hectares of farmland submerged. Crops have been destroyed, leaving farmers devastated.

Relief efforts are underway, with the Ramakrishna Mission Trust distributing dry food and essential supplies to affected families.