Bhubaneswar: With water level in major rivers in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts rising after incessant rain, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has launched extensive rescue and relief operations in flood-affected areas.
Rising water level in major rivers like Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Jalaka triggered flood-like situation, prompting urgent action by agencies like ODRAF.
So far, more than 8,191 people from 18 blocks across both districts have been safely rescued and relocated to safer areas by ODRAF teams, a press note from the state police said on Wednesday.
These operations are being carried out in coordination with Fire Services and are being conducted round-the-clock under the direct supervision of Satyajit Naik DIG (Eastern Range).
While over 2,000 people from low-lying areas, including Baliapal, Bhograi, Basta, Kamarda, and Singla, have been evacuated in Balasore, more than 6,000 people from Saraskana, Rasgovindpur, Badasahi, Betanati, and Baripada have been rescued and shifted to safety in Mayurbhanj.
Altogether eleven ODRAF teams, six in Mayurbhanj and five in Balasore, have been deployed on the ground. The personnel have been actively engaged in evacuating people from waterlogged regions, issuing alerts, and shifting residents to designated relief shelters.
Officials have assured continuous monitoring and support to prevent loss of life and property amid the ongoing rainfall.
