Bhubaneswar, 01 August (H.S.): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday conducted an extensive aerial survey of flood-affected regions across the state, reviewing the situation in more than 12 blocks spanning five districts. He was accompanied by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and the Special Relief Commissioner during the inspection.
Following the survey, the Chief Minister stated that several villages remain inundated, though the situation is gradually improving. He expressed optimism that floodwaters are likely to recede within the next two days, bringing relief to affected residents.
Majhi directed officials to complete a comprehensive assessment of damages within three days after the floodwaters recede. Based on these reports, the state government will roll out immediate relief packages, particularly targeting losses in agriculture, housing, and other affected sectors.
During the aerial review, the Chief Minister assessed flood conditions in Dasarathpur, Bari, and Binjharpur blocks of Jajpur district; Dhamnagar, Bhandaripokhari, and Chandbali in Bhadrak; Soro, Remuna, and Balasore Sadar in Balasore district; parts of Badasahi, Udala, and Kaptipada in Mayurbhanj; and Hatadihi block in Keonjhar district.
He emphasized that the state government is maintaining constant vigilance over the evolving flood situation and is coordinating closely with ministers and senior officials to ensure timely and effective response measures. Special attention is also being given to the flood scenario in Puri district.
Highlighting the administration’s focus on “zero casualty,” Majhi noted that around 8 lakh people have been affected by the floods, while approximately 2.69 lakh individuals have been safely evacuated to secure locations.
Rescue and relief operations are being carried out by 17 ODRAF teams, 7 NDRF units, and 129 fire and emergency service teams. Around 700 shelters and relief camps have been set up to provide accommodation, cooked and dry food, drinking water, and medical services to those displaced. Senior officials are actively monitoring relief and restoration efforts at the ground level.
The Chief Minister further informed that ₹26 crore has been released from the State Disaster Response Fund to support ongoing relief and rescue operations. Essential supplies, including polythene sheets, food items, drinking water, and medicines, are being distributed among affected families.
Additionally, instructions have been issued for the prompt repair of damaged roads and infrastructure. Authorities are also maintaining strict vigilance to prevent any post-flood health issues. Majhi stated that timely dissemination of information and proactive measures have helped significantly in minimizing large-scale damage.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
