Odisha government on August 16 put 10 districts on high alert as flood water started to enter several villages flanking Mahanadi. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik held a review of prevailing flood situation and State’s preparedness. He directed district Collectors to ensure no life is lost in the flood and people are evacuated to safer places.
Flood water has entered low-lying areas of Cittack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri and Boudh districts. Jagatsinghpur district administration has ordered closure of schools till August 17.
“Due to incessant rain, there is every possibility of flood occuring in 10 districts along the Mahanadi basin. People living in low-lying areas should be provided with relief and necessary amenities,” said Mr. Patnaik. He emphasised on deploying disaster response forces at all vulnerable areas and ensuring immediate rescue operations
Engineering Departments should restore all communication routes in the shortest possible time, the CM said. Power utilities have also been alerted.
“The situation is under control after eight gates at Hirakid reservoir were closed. Now, water is being released through 26 gates,” said P. K. Jena, Special Relief Commissioner.
Nine units of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force have been deployed in seven districts and nine National Disaster Response Force in six districts. As many as 44y units fire service personal have been kept in readiness.
Mr. Jena informed that 11.75 lakh CUSECS of water would flow through Mundali barrage on Tuesday night. Odisha is bracing for another round of rain fury with a low pressure area likely to form over Bay of Bengal around August 19 .
