Odisha Reviews Baitarani Flood Situation, Assures Preparedness
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Revenue & Disaster Management Minister, Suresh Pujari, chaired a high‑level review meeting at the Special Relief Commissioner’s office to assess the rising water levels in the Baitarani River following continuous rainfall.
Officials confirmed that while the river has risen at Anandapur and Akhuapada, it remains below danger levels.
Other major rivers, including Mahanadi, Devi, Jalaka, Kushabhadra, Rushikulya, and Ib, are also flowing safely.
The meeting focused on evacuation plans, rescue operations, shelter management, and relief material distribution.
Minister Pujari assured that the flood situation is under control, with instructions for immediate assistance wherever required.
No major loss of life or property has been reported.
Crop damage has been noted in some areas. District administrations have been directed to conduct surveys and ensure compensation to farmers within 24 hours of assessment.
Hospitals have been asked to stock anti‑venom medicines to address possible snakebite cases after floodwaters recede.
Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil confirmed adequate stocks of polythene sheets and relief materials, ODRAF teams on standby, and early warning messages being sent to vulnerable areas.
Collectors of Jajpur and Bhadrak joined the meeting virtually, along with senior officials.
A detailed review with all 30 districts will be conducted after Rath Yatra to strengthen disaster preparedness across Odisha.
