Bhubaneswar: Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida today conducted an aerial survey of flood-affected areas in Balasore district to assess the extent of damage caused by the recent heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers.

According to her statement, the flood has impacted as many as 154 villages across six blocks of the district — Bhogarai, Baliapal, Basta, Jaleswar, Balasore Sadar, and Remuna. Also, eight wards under Jaleswar Municipality have been affected.

Parida informed that the state government has deployed teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and Fire Services to carry out rescue and relief operations.

Efforts are underway to evacuate residents to safer places, while arrangements for food and essential supplies have been made in the affected areas.

She said the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by the floods.