Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Fire Services has deployed 60 teams across five districts for flood relief and rescue operations as heavy rain continues to affect several parts of the state.
Fire Services DG Sudhanshu Sarangi said the teams have been sent to Baleshwar, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj and Kendujhar districts. They are equipped with rubber boats and mechanized boats for rescue work in waterlogged and marooned areas.
“In the last 24 hours, we have rescued 212 people from flood-affected areas,” Sarangi said. He added that apart from human rescue, teams have also responded to requests for animals. “People in several places requested us to rescue domestic animals. In this regard, we have rescued 120 domestic animals so far,” he said.
The Fire Services is also carrying out dewatering operations. “Water has been drained from 45 places including medical facilities, electricity sub-stations and block offices. Dewatering programmes are continuing,” Sarangi said.
He said rescue operations can be intensified further once water levels recede in the worst-hit areas.
Urging people in distress to seek help, the DG said, “Dial 112 if you are in an unsafe or waterlogged area and are stranded and want to be rescued.
Our team will immediately reach you and help you.”Sarangi also informed that a firefighter has died during the ongoing operations. “His house is in Talcher,” he said.
