Bhubaneswar: In response to continuous heavy rainfall in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts of North Odisha, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has launched extensive rescue and relief operations. Rising water levels in major rivers—Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Jalaka—have led to flood-like situations, prompting urgent action.
According to an official press note of the Odisha Police, so far, more than 8,191 people from 18 blocks across both districts have been safely rescued and relocated to safer areas by ODRAF teams. These operations are being carried out in coordination with Fire Services and are being conducted round-the-clock under the direct supervision of Dr. Satyajit Naik DIG (Eastern Range), Balasore.
In Balasore, over 2,000 residents from low-lying areas, including Baliapal, Bhograi, Basta, Kamarda, and Singla, have been evacuated. In Mayurbhanj, more than 6,000 people from Saraskana, Rasgovindpur, Badasahi, Betanati, and Baripada have been rescued and shifted to safety.
A total of 11 ODRAF teams—six in Mayurbhanj and five in Balasore—have been deployed on the ground. The personnel have been actively engaged in evacuating people from waterlogged regions, issuing alerts, and shifting residents to designated relief shelters.
Authorities have assured continuous monitoring and support to prevent loss of life and property amid the ongoing rainfall.
