National
Odisha Floods: Floods Affect Around One Million People Across Six Districts In North state
Flood situation continues to remain grim in north Odisha, with swelling rivers inundating large areas of six districts and affecting around one million people. Baitarani continues to flow above the danger level at Akhuapada, while Brahmani, Salandi and Subarnarekha are also swelling, leaving several villages marooned. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a one-thousand-crore-rupee assistance package for flood-affected people and farmers.
In Bhadrak, Bhandaripokhari and Tihidi blocks remain among the worst affected, with floodwaters submerging villages and disrupting normal life. Jajpur, Kendrapara, Balasore, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj are also witnessing inundation, with many people facing shortages of relief materials, shelter, food and drinking water.
The swelling Brahmani and Salandi rivers have added to the crisis, while the Baitarani remains above the danger mark at Akhuapada. A fresh rise in the Subarnarekha has also inundated villages in Balasore. Floodwaters have damaged standing crops and created an acute shortage of fodder for livestock. Several schools remain closed as a precautionary measure in flood-affected areas. The state government has announced a one-thousand-crore-rupee relief package for affected people and farmers.