Cyclone Impact / Schools in Odisha's Ganjam district to remain closed till November 2 amid flood situation

Brahmapur, Oct 31: Schools across Odisha's Ganjam district will remain closed till November 2 in view of the prevailing flood situation and the possibility of further adverse weather, District Collector V Keerthi Vasan informed on Saturday.

The flood situation in Odisha's Ganjam district is gradually improving, with floodwaters receding in several areas. However, three villages remained inundated on Saturday, the district administration said.

Addressing a press conference, the Ganjam Collector said 21 villages were surrounded by floodwaters on Friday, but the number had come down to three by Saturday. A total of 73 villages across the district were affected by the floods, while 56,051 people have so far been evacuated to safer locations.

The administration is distributing cooked food at 370 locations for people affected by the floods. It is also making arrangements to ensure adequate stocks of essential supplies at all these locations for the next 15 to 20 days to prevent any shortage.

The Aska and Sheragada block offices were also surrounded by floodwaters. Although water levels in rivers across the district are declining, some rivers are still flowing above the danger mark. With the possibility of another spell of rain and a cyclone, the administration has maintained heightened vigilance.

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"Repair work on roads damaged by the floods has begun, with priority being given to major routes. Restoration work is underway on the road connecting Hinjili and Bhanjanagar, after which repairs will be taken up on other damaged roads", the Collector said.

"Efforts are also underway to restore electricity supply. Power connections have been restored across all blocks within 24 hours, although supply remained disrupted in a few locations. We are aiming to restore electricity in all affected areas by this evening. The district administration is also taking steps to repair damaged anicuts and embankments", Vasan said.

Meanwhile, information was received about 12 people missing in the Gidipabali area. Search operations are underway from both the Ganjam and Kandhamal sides, the Collector said.