Bhubaneswar, 26 August (H.S.): Floodwaters in Odisha’s Jajpur district have begun to recede, bringing some relief to residents after days of inundation. According to Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, more than 5,000 people displaced by the floods are currently taking shelter in government-run relief centres.

The minister announced that he will visit Jajpur today to assess the flood-affected areas and oversee the ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts. He stated that several areas were severely impacted by rising water levels, necessitating the evacuation of many residents.

An embankment breach in the district is under close surveillance. Authorities have confirmed that repair work will commence once the water levels drop sufficiently to ensure safe access.

Relief centres are providing essential services including cooked meals, medical assistance, and other critical supplies, with particular attention to vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children. The government is also preparing to disburse compensation to families whose homes and agricultural lands have been damaged.

Minister Pujari urged residents to remain in relief centres and cooperate with local officials until the situation stabilizes, emphasizing that public safety remains the administration's top priority.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda