Malkangiri: Incessant rain followed by surge in water levels in the rivers has cut off several areas of Malkangiri district from the remaining world. Flood water is flowing above 5-6 feet in several areas marooning people in their homes. Hundreds of vehicles, some carrying essential commodities, have been stranded at different parts of the district since Sunday.
Communication between Kalimela and Motu in the district has been cut off. Flood water is flowing over the culverts on MV-90 and MV-96. Communication between Malkangari and Koraput districts has been completely cut off and the National Highway No. 326 in the region is submerged under flood water.
The flood waters from Poteru River have entered the villages in the district. Several houses, educational and commercial establishments are submerged in flood water. As the rain continues, the situation is likely to become more critical. Many people have left their homes and taken shelter on the two floors of the Poteru police station.
Traffic between Jeypore and Malkangari has been stopped as the flood water is flowing 10 feet above the culvert on Pangam River. Similarly, MV 7, Poteru, Kangurukunda, MV90, MV 96, Pangam, and Kanyashram are under water.
Malkangiri district faces this situation during the monsoon every year forcing people to leave their homes for food and shelter. Unfortunately, the district administration has not made any permanent arrangements to ensure that the people of the area are not disturbed during the rainy season.
