Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government on Monday reviewed its flood preparedness in view of the rising water level in the Baitarani river following continuous rainfall in its catchment areas, with the government asserting that the situation remains under control.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari chaired a high-level review meeting at the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), Rajiv Bhawan, here, to assess the evolving flood scenario and preparedness measures across the State.
The meeting reviewed the current water level of the Baitarani river, the anticipated flood situation, vulnerable areas and populations, evacuation and rescue arrangements, shelter management, availability of relief materials, and deployment of rescue teams. District administrations were also directed to remain on alert and ensure a prompt response in case of any emergency.
The Minister said that although the Baitarani river level has shown a rising trend at Anandapur and Akhuapada, it remains well below the danger mark. He added that the overall flood situation in Odisha is under control and that the government is fully prepared to deal with any eventuality.
Pujari instructed officials to ensure immediate evacuation and assistance to people wherever required, stressing that there should be no delay in relief measures. He said the administration has been directed to maintain close coordination with all departments and district authorities.
The meeting also noted that while several parts of Odisha have been affected by continuous rainfall in recent days, major rivers, including the Mahanadi, Devi, Jalaka, Kushabhadra, Rushikulya, and Ib, are flowing below danger levels.
Officials informed the Minister that no significant loss of life or damage to houses has been reported so far due to the rainfall. However, reports of crop damage from a few areas have been received, following which district administrations have been instructed to conduct immediate field surveys, assess losses, and submit reports to the department.
The Minister further directed that compensation to affected farmers be disbursed within 24 hours of completion of the damage assessment.
The meeting also reviewed preparedness for possible post-flood health issues, including snakebite incidents. Hospitals have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of anti-venom, and preventive measures have been planned.
Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil informed that sufficient stocks of polythene sheets and relief materials are available, and ODRAF teams have been kept on standby for deployment. He added that early warning messages are being regularly issued to people in vulnerable areas.
The Minister also said a comprehensive review meeting with all 30 district administrations will be held after the conclusion of Rath Yatra to further strengthen disaster preparedness in view of continued rainfall.
Collectors of Jajpur and Bhadrak, along with other district officials, participated in the meeting through video conferencing.
