Odisha floods: 7.85 lakh affected across six districts, 1,304 villages inundated

The flood situation in Odisha worsened as 7.85 lakh people across 66 blocks in six districts were affected, Odisha TV reports. The deluge has inundated 1,304 villages and 448 gram panchayats, while 64 wards in 10 urban areas have also been hit. Authorities have evacuated about 2.77 lakh people to safer locations.

Hindustan Times reports that floodwaters entered the Pattamundai Kulsahi Ashram School in Kendrapara district, affecting more than 300 students. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the Vaitarani and Salandi rivers have witnessed flood conditions for the fourth time. He said the government is providing dry rations and community kitchen facilities, following the same SOPs as before.

Rescue operations have been stepped up with 39 ODRAF, seven NDRF and 53 fire services teams deployed. The Central Water Commission has warned of flash-flood risk in parts of Odisha, and the IMD has forecast heavy rainfall for 11 districts.