Disaster Preparedness / Odisha Plans Massive Relocation Drive in Landslide-Prone Hills after Gidipabali Tragedy

Bhubaneswar, Nov 4: In the aftermath of the devastating Gidipabali landslide, the Odisha government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to relocate people living in vulnerable hilltop and foothill settlements across the state to prevent future loss of life.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the government has launched a survey to identify residents living in areas prone to landslides, particularly in Kandhamal and Gajapati districts where hundreds of hills and several vulnerable points have been identified.

"People living on top of hills and at their foothills will be relocated. A survey has already begun to determine how many people are residing in these vulnerable areas," Pujari said.

Also read: Gidipabali rescue halted amid rain as fresh landslide threat looms

He added that officials had visited northeastern states to study best practices for managing landslide-prone regions.

"Once the settlements are identified, the relocation process will begin. The government will develop new habitations and provide houses to affected families in safer locations," he said.

Referring to survivors of the Gidipabali disaster, the minister said many had requested land in safer areas. "Those who survived the landslide are asking the government to provide them land in safer places. They will be given houses under government welfare housing schemes," he stated.

On the ongoing rescue efforts, Pujari clarified that the operation has not been called off despite the challenges posed by the massive volume of debris. According to him, nearly 25 to 30 feet of soil has accumulated at the disaster site, raising fears that more victims could remain buried underneath.

"Many believe the operation has ended, but my heart does not accept that. I have instructed the district administration to continue the rescue and life-search operation," the minister said.

He noted that rescue teams worked continuously for five days, employing advanced techniques, including chain-pulling equipment and life-detection devices. However, difficult terrain and huge rocks have made a complete excavation nearly impossible.