Odisha Revenue Minister reviews flood situation after Cyclone Arnab hits Ganjam
Ganjam is the worst-hit district with over 43,000 people impacted by flooding following Cyclone Arnab, according to OTV.
Odisha Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari reviewed the flood situation in the state on Friday, noting that Ganjam has been the most severely affected district following Cyclone Arnab. Heavy rainfall has caused waterlogging, submerged roads, and disrupted connectivity across several areas.
According to a report by OTV, seven districts including Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, and Kandhamal have been severely impacted. Ganjam remains the worst-hit area, followed by Gajapati.
Minister Pujari stated that rainfall intensity has lessened over the last 24 hours. He noted that areas in Ganjam previously seeing 400-500 mm of rain saw 63.3 mm in the recent 24-hour period, while Gajapati and Kandhamal received nearly 25 mm and 22 mm respectively.
In Ganjam, more than 300 villages and 22 blocks have been affected. The flooding has impacted over 43,000 people, leading to the evacuation of approximately 23,000 residents to safer locations.
The state recorded a cumulative rainfall of 130 mm between October 1 and 30, which is 18.7 per cent above the normal average of 111 mm. Pujari said this excessive rain caused extensive damage to roads.
Helicopters have been deployed to rescue stranded residents in low-lying areas and for food drops. ODRAF and Fire Services personnel will assist in food distribution, while pregnant women in relief shelters have reportedly delivered babies safely.