Bhubaneswar, 2 July (H.S.) : Continuous heavy rainfall in northern Odisha, particularly in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts, has triggered a flood-like situation due to rising water levels in major rivers such as the Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Jalka. In response, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has been actively engaged in extensive rescue and relief operations across the affected regions.
ODRAF teams, working round-the-clock, have played a crucial role in safeguarding lives and property. Their primary responsibility has been the evacuation of residents from waterlogged and marooned areas and ensuring their relocation to safer zones.
As of now, over 8,191 people from 18 blocks across the two districts have been successfully rescued and shifted to relief shelters. The rescue efforts have been carried out in close coordination with Odisha Fire Services, ensuring a 24x7 emergency response. The operations are being conducted under the direct supervision of Dr. Satyajit Nayak, IPS, DIG (Eastern Range), who is overseeing the situation on the ground in Balasore.
In Balasore district, floodwaters have severely affected regions such as Baliapal, Bhograi, Basta, Kamarda, and Singla. More than 2,000 local residents have been rescued from submerged villages. Similarly, in Mayurbhanj district, areas including Sarasakana, Rasgovindpur, Badasahi, Betanati, and Baripada have witnessed significant flooding. More than 6,000 people have been evacuated and provided with temporary shelter in safer locations. ODRAF personnel have been working tirelessly, even through the night, to assist those trapped in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
Teams have also taken proactive measures by issuing early warnings and encouraging residents to move to designated relief camps before conditions worsen.
To manage the crisis effectively, six ODRAF teams have been deployed in Mayurbhanj and five teams in Balasore. These teams continue to remain on high alert, focusing on rescue operations, distribution of relief materials, and ensuring public safety amid ongoing rain and water level fluctuations. ---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
