Malkangiri: The district administration has intensified relief and rescue operations as heavy rainfall has triggered flooding in several parts of Malkangiri, affecting around 28 gram panchayats and 37 villages across Mathili, Kalimela, Padia and Khairput blocks.
As many as 2,259 people have been rescued and shifted to a relief shelter, while three free community kitchens have been opened to provide cooked food to affected residents. The administration has also distributed polythene rolls and 20 units of dry food packets in the affected areas, including under MPV-06.
District Collector Prathamesh Arvind Rajeshirke visited the affected areas and reviewed the situation on the ground. In view of the continuing heavy rain, thunderstorms and flood situation, all government and private schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres in the district will remain closed on Saturday, September 26.
The closure covers primary, upper primary, secondary, Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, higher secondary and degree colleges, besides all Anganwadi centres. However, teaching and non-teaching staff and Anganwadi workers have been asked to report for duty to assist the administration in relief and rehabilitation operations. Examinations already scheduled by various boards, councils and universities will be conducted as planned.
Traffic movement has been disrupted at several locations, with floodwater flowing over seven bridges, including Poteru, Kangurukonda, Kanyashram, Haldikunda, Baliguda, Kandahaguda and Baribencha bridges. Authorities have advised commuters to use the alternative Padia road near Shikhapali Chowk and are closely monitoring the condition of the Poteru and Pangam bridges.
To ensure healthcare services in affected areas, 20 special medical teams have been deployed. The district administration and security forces are conducting round-the-clock relief and rescue operations under the supervision of the Collector.
The administration has appealed to people not to panic, remain alert and prioritise the safety of their families amid the adverse weather conditions.
