Odisha Flood Crisis Deepens as IMD Predicts Fresh Rains, Thousands Still Stranded

Odisha’s flood situation remains challenging as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a fresh spell of rainfall across the state from Wednesday, even as several villages continue to remain submerged and thousands of people are waiting to return home.

The IMD has forecast rainfall across Odisha from August 5 to August 10, with warnings of heavy to very heavy showers in some districts. An orange warning has been issued for Mayurbhanj on Wednesday, while the alert continues for Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar on August 6.

Several flood-affected areas in Jajpur, Bhadrak and Jagatsinghpur districts are still facing severe waterlogging. Residents of Dasarathpur in Jajpur, Basudevpur in Bhadrak, and Kujang and Tirtol areas of Jagatsinghpur have been unable to return to their homes as roads remain submerged. Many families continue to stay in relief camps awaiting the receding of floodwaters.

Although water levels in major rivers have started declining due to reduced rainfall in Odisha and neighbouring Chhattisgarh over the past few days, officials warned that the upcoming rain spell could bring fresh difficulties.

The Hirakud Dam authorities have been closely monitoring the situation as inflows have reduced. Nine sluice gates have been closed, while floodwater is currently being released through 13 gates. The reservoir level stood at 618.71 feet, with officials regulating discharge depending on rainfall patterns and downstream conditions.

Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg has directed various departments to accelerate restoration and rehabilitation work. Officials have been asked to immediately repair damaged river embankments and ensure the supply of relief materials, including fodder for livestock.

The recent floods affected 8.63 lakh people across 22 districts, impacting nearly 1,458 villages in 85 blocks. At least six people have died, while more than 3,500 houses were damaged in the disaster.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders have raised concerns over relief distribution in some flood-hit regions, alleging delays in providing essential supplies to affected families.

With another spell of rain approaching, Odisha authorities remain on high alert, focusing on flood management, relief operations and preventing further damage in vulnerable areas.