Baripada: A landslide triggered by heavy rainfall occurred in the Similipal National Park in Mayurbhanj district early Monday, damaging several trees and prompting authorities to monitor the affected hill slope.
The incident took place around 3 am in the Thakurmunda Wildlife Range, near Nuakeshadiha and Chandikhaman villages under Keshadiha Gram Panchayat.
According to local residents, a portion of the hill suddenly gave way with a loud sound, sending soil and debris downhill. The affected stretch is estimated to be around 30 feet wide and nearly two kilometres long.
Several trees were uprooted or damaged in the landslide. The incident caused panic among residents of the nearby villages, who expressed concern that continued rainfall could trigger further movement of soil and rocks.
On being informed, personnel from Mahuladiha police and the forest department reached the spot and inspected the area. Officials are maintaining a watch on the hill and surrounding locations and have advised people to keep away from the affected site as a precaution.
With rain continuing in the hilly region, villagers have urged the administration and forest department to maintain round-the-clock surveillance and take prompt measures if any further movement is detected.
Authorities have asked residents to remain alert and avoid approaching the landslide-prone area until weather conditions improve.
