Bhubaneswar: Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari on Monday said the state government is fully prepared to deal with the rain and flood situation in Odisha, as heavy to very heavy rainfall continues in several districts.
Addressing the media, the Minister said, “Flood due to heavy rain during monsoon is nothing new for us. We always prepare to tackle the deluge.
“Citing the IMD forecast, he said red warning for heavy to very heavy rain has been issued for 7-8 districts and orange warning for 15 other districts. Heavy rain continued till yesterday in several parts of the state.
“I am in constant touch with the Collectors and weather department officials,” Pujari said. He informed that Sundargarh, Sambalpur, Bargarh and Jharsuguda witnessed heavy rain since yesterday. Rainfall was also reported in Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Deogarh, Anugul, Kendujhar, Mayurbhanj, Sonepur, Boudh, Nuapada and Balangir. South Odisha also received rain.
According to the Minister, the state recorded 47.2 mm rainfall in the last 24 hours. Balasore recorded the highest. More than 100 mm rainfall was recorded in 13 blocks and one urban area. “In the last seven days, the state has witnessed 84 per cent more rainfall than normal. We are in touch with the Water Resources department,” he added.
On the river situation, Pujari said due to less rain in upper catchment areas and more rain in downstream areas, major rivers have not seen a significant rise. Water is being released from Hirakud through only two gates. Water levels in Brahmani, Baitarani, Jalaka and Budhabalanga have increased. Only the Jalaka river has crossed the danger mark. He said water has entered several low-lying areas in urban pockets and some areas are marooned. ODRAF and NDRF teams have been deployed at all sensitive places. Fire service personnel are also present in vulnerable areas. Evacuation has started wherever required.
“Emergency goods, medicines and doctors’ teams are ready in flood and cyclone shelters. Cooked food has been arranged for evacuees and dry ration is being distributed in several areas,” the Minister said.
The government has also made arrangements for shifting of domestic animals and their fodder. Anti-venom injections have been kept ready by medical teams in vulnerable areas.
“We are prepared for more than what IMD has predicted because the weather system is changeable. The deep depression may leave Odisha and move towards neighbouring states by this evening,” Pujari said.
He added that administrative and Water Resources officials are on the ground in waterlogged low-lying areas and are continuously updating the department.
“There is no need to panic. The government is well prepared. I urge people to cooperate with the administration and follow instructions. The situation is under control. No flood situation is probable in major rivers except Jalaka river,” the Revenue Minister said.
