As heavy rains to impact multiple areas of the state, Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg today reviewed the current flood scenario and the preparation and reaction measures implemented by various agencies and district administrations. The Chief Secretary instructed involved departments and District Collectors to take everything necessary and prompt action to protect the safety of people in flood-affected regions at a high-level review meeting at the Special Relief Commissioner’s office.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts within the next 24 hours, a low-pressure region over the north Bay of Bengal and surrounding parts of West Bengal and the north Odisha coast will strengthen, increasing the likelihood of rainfall activity in northern Odisha. While the majority of other districts are on an Orange Warning, Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, and Kendujhar are under a Red Warning. A Yellow Warning is still in effect for several regions. In the impacted northern areas, rainfall is predicted to persist until August 18, at which point its intensity is predicted to decline.
According to statistics at the conference, the current flood has impacted 49 blocks, 331 Gram Panchayats, 947 villages, and five urban areas, affecting around 5.15 lakh people. Approximately 2.37 lakh people have been evacuated to high, secure areas. District Collectors are keeping an eye on the situation and organizing rescue and relief efforts. Currently, 293 assistance camps are receiving cooked meals, flattened rice (chuda), jaggery, and other necessities. Thirty-six ODRAF teams, seven NDRF teams, and forty-three Fire Services teams have been assigned to various districts for rescue and emergency operations.
Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) been sent by the Health Department to hospitals and medical schools in the impacted districts. There are sufficient supplies of anti-snake venom injections, halogen pills, bleaching powder, and vital medications.
