Odisha flood situation remains grim, over 2.7 lakh affected; 95,206 evacuated

Bhubaneswar, Aug 15 (AHN) The flood situation remains grim in Odisha even as water levels in some major rivers of the state have started receding, with several areas continuing to remain inundated and thousands of people affected by the flooding.

Meanwhile, low-pressure-induced incessant rainfall continues to batter several parts of the state, resulting in waterlogging in many places on Saturday.

According to the latest report from the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) under the Office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), flood conditions have affected six districts, 52 blocks, 227 gram panchayats, and 503 villages, impacting around 2,70,212 people.

The officials said that the situation is being closely monitored in coordination with the respective District Emergency Operation Centres (DEOCs), with Mayurbhanj, Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur and Kendujhar under close watch.

"As of today, 95,206 people have been evacuated and accommodated in 226 shelters, where essential facilities including hygienic and cooked food, safe drinking water, sanitation, lighting and medical support are being ensured," the SEOC report said.

It also added that a total of 118 response teams has been deployed across the affected areas to support evacuation, rescue, relief and emergency response operations.

"These include 36 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams, 7 NDRF teams, 35 Fire and Emergency Services teams and 40 Police/Civil Defence/Local teams. More response teams continue to remain on standby and are being deployed as required to ensure timely assistance to communities in vulnerable and affected areas," the report added.

According to the SEOC, the health services continue to remain a key priority during these times.

As many as 62 medical teams have been deployed in the affected areas, with adequate stocks of medicines, ORS, IV fluids and anti-snake venom being maintained to meet any emerging requirement.

At the same time, 31 veterinary teams/Rapid Response Teams have been deployed and 22 veterinary camps have been organised.

So far, 51 animals have been treated/vaccinated, while 357.2 MT of cattle feed has been supplied to support livestock and affected communities.

It also noted that response teams and concerned departments are working 24×7 to ensure that necessary relief, medical assistance, drinking water, food and other essential requirements reach affected communities without delay.

"The overall situation remains under close observation, and all concerned administrations and departments have been directed to remain prepared and responsive to any emerging requirement. The state's coordinated response mechanism continues to focus on protecting lives, supporting affected families and ensuring a safe and smooth return to normalcy for all," the SRC asserted.