Odisha's Flood Fury: 7 Lakh Affected, Mahanadi Threat Looms as State on High Alert

A severe flood situation has gripped Odisha, leaving at least three people dead and affecting over seven lakh residents across 20 districts as of Thursday. Triggered by a deep depression that formed on July 28, the relentless rainfall, which is 96.7% above normal for July, has caused widespread inundation and prompted the state government to declare a high alert. North Odisha districts, including Bhadrak, Balasore, and Jajpur, remain the worst-hit, with Bhadrak alone seeing over four lakh people impacted and more than 1 lakh evacuated to 234 relief camps. While some northern rivers show signs of receding, the swelling Mahanadi River system is now the primary concern, with water levels crossing the danger mark at Naraj and a 'medium flood' expected as discharge at Mundali Barrage could reach nine lakh cusecs. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari are actively monitoring the crisis, deploying 136 rescue teams from NDRF, ODRAF, and Fire Services, and closing schools in 10 districts. With vast agricultural lands submerged and nearly 865 kutcha houses damaged, the focus is now on immediate relief and preparedness for the looming Mahanadi threat. The Health Department has also stepped up, announcing special measures for pregnant women and to tackle rising snakebite incidents. As authorities brace for continued heavy rainfall forecasts, ensuring the safety of evacuated citizens and restoring normalcy remains the government's top priority, with compensation plans also being drawn up for the affected.