Flood situation improving in Odisha; 7 districts worst hit: Minister

Bhubaneswar: Flood situation in the state has started to improve following decrease in rainfall activities, said Revenue Minister Sudam Marandi here today.

Speaking to newsmen, the Minister said seven districts, including Koraput, Kandhamal, Malkangiri, Kalahandi, Gajapati, Nabarangpur and Rayagada have been worst affected due to incessant rain causing flash flood in the last 24 hours. However, the situation has improved in districts like Gajapati, Koraput and Malkangiri.

He further said that five districts – Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Bolangir, Jajpur and Koraput have recorded over 100 mm rainfall in the last 24 hours. Thuamula Rampur and Karlamunda blocks of Kalahandi districts have received over 300 mm rainfall, he added.

“Nine blocks have received 200 mm-300 mm rainfall while 53 blocks have received 100 mm-200 mm rainfall in the last 24 hours,”the Minister added.

Marandi said rain water that had caused waterlogging in several low-laying areas has started receding. Besides, ODRAF teams and firefighting personnel have been deployed in the affected districts to help people. Cooked food is also being provided to people staying in various cyclone shelters, he added.