CM Majhi Conducts Aerial Survey as Floods Submerge Over 1,000 Villages in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi conducted an aerial survey of flood-affected areas in Ganjam and Gajapati districts to assess the extent of devastation caused by heavy rains and flooding triggered by Cyclone Arnab.

Accompanied by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, the Chief Minister reviewed the situation in several inundated regions and directed officials to intensify rescue and relief operations.

The survey revealed extensive damage across southern Odisha, with villages submerged, roads washed away, and communication networks severely disrupted.

The flooding has particularly affected low-lying areas in Ganjam district, where the Rushikulya River continues to flow well above the danger mark.

According to official reports, hundreds of villages across Ganjam have been inundated, affecting areas including Sorada, Asika, Bhanjanagar, Dharakote, and Sanakhemundi.

Floodwaters have entered residential localities, forcing thousands of residents to seek shelter in safer locations.

The situation remains equally grim in Gajapati district, where rising water levels in the Vansadhara and Mahendratanaya rivers have cut off several villages from the rest of the region.

More than 1,000 villages across the two districts are reportedly affected by the flooding.

Authorities said over 43,000 people in Ganjam have been impacted, while more than 59,000 people have been evacuated across the state as a precautionary measure.

Rescue operations are being carried out with the support of over 300 teams, while helicopters from the Navy and Coast Guard have been deployed to reach inaccessible areas and deliver essential supplies.

Floodwaters have also caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and transportation links.

Railway connectivity in several areas has been disrupted, affecting movement and relief logistics.

Following the aerial assessment, Chief Minister Majhi instructed district administrations to ensure timely distribution of relief materials and maintain round-the-clock monitoring of vulnerable locations.

He also urged residents living near rivers to remain alert and follow official advisories.

While water levels have started receding in some areas, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as rehabilitation and restoration efforts are expected to continue in the coming days.