Severe flooding has disrupted normal life in Odisha's Bhadrak district after continuous heavy rainfall caused several rivers to overflow, inundating large parts of the region. According to district authorities, the floods have affected 61 Gram Panchayats across 261 villages, impacting nearly 2.45 lakh people. Rescue and relief operations are in full swing, with teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Fire Services working around the clock to evacuate residents and livestock to safer locations.
Bhadrak Collector Dillip Rautrai said the district administration has prioritised the evacuation of people living in low-lying and waterlogged areas. Hundreds of families have already been shifted to flood shelters, where food, drinking water, medical assistance, and other essential supplies are being provided. Authorities are also ensuring that cattle and other livestock are safely relocated to reduce economic losses for farming communities.
The flooding has been triggered by rising water levels in rivers such as the Baitarani, Salandi, and Jalaka following days of incessant rainfall across northern Odisha. Several roads remain submerged, disrupting transportation and cutting off access to many villages. In some areas, overflowing rivers have damaged embankments, worsening the flood situation and leaving residents stranded.
Disaster response teams are using inflatable boats to rescue people trapped in marooned villages. Medical teams have also been deployed to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases, while veterinary officials are monitoring the health of rescued livestock. The Odisha government has instructed district administrations to maintain a zero-casualty approach and ensure uninterrupted relief operations until floodwaters recede.
Officials said flood shelters have been opened in vulnerable areas, and continuous monitoring of river water levels is underway. Residents have been advised to avoid venturing into flooded zones and to follow official advisories. Emergency control rooms remain operational to respond to distress calls and coordinate rescue activities.
The India Meteorological Department has warned that parts of Odisha may continue to receive rainfall, prompting authorities to remain on high alert. With water levels still fluctuating in several rivers, rescue agencies are prepared for additional evacuations if conditions worsen. The state government has assured that all necessary resources are being deployed to safeguard lives and provide timely assistance to those affected by the floods.
