BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday conducted an aerial survey of flood- and rain-affected areas in Ganjam, Koraput and Nabarangpur districts to assess the extent of damage and review ongoing relief and rescue operations.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil accompanied the Chief Minister during the helicopter-based survey.
Majhi also reviewed the condition of the Kalinga Ghati, a key road link between Ganjam and Kandhamal, which has been closed indefinitely following landslides and rockfalls triggered by heavy rain. The administration has barred vehicular movement through the vulnerable stretch until the road is cleared and necessary safety measures are undertaken.
The closure followed two landslide incidents in which large rocks and boulders fell onto the road, while parts of the hillside and road were damaged. Officials have expressed concern over the safety of commuters as the area remains vulnerable to further landslides.
The Chief Minister travelled from Bhubaneswar towards Kalinga Ghati before proceeding to the southern districts to take stock of the post-flood situation. The survey covered the affected areas in Ganjam, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabarangpur, besides the condition of key road links.
In Koraput, Majhi visited Chandili High School, where people affected by the heavy rain met him and apprised him of their problems. He interacted with the affected residents and enquired about the availability of essential services and relief.
The Chief Minister also held discussions with local people’s representatives and administrative officials and directed them to accelerate relief and assistance operations.
Following his instructions, relief distribution, rescue operations, drinking water supply and health services are being carried out on a priority basis in the affected areas. The district administrations and concerned departments have been directed to ensure that essential assistance reaches affected people without delay.
The recent spell of heavy rain associated with a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal caused flooding and waterlogging in several parts of Odisha, particularly in the southern districts. The government has stepped up evacuation, relief and rescue operations in vulnerable areas.
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