Bhubaneswar: In a move to accelerate relief and rehabilitation efforts, the Odisha government has released an additional ₹26 crore to support districts severely impacted by recent floods, bringing the total allocation to ₹136 crore.
Speaking to the press, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Wednesday detailed the phased distribution of funds, ongoing deployment of emergency services, and the state’s multi-departmental relief package designed to compensate affected families. “In the first phase, ₹110 crore was allocated to various districts including Baleshwar, Jajpur, and Bhadrak. In addition to this, we have released another ₹26 crore. Overall, ₹136 crore has been allocated to various districts so far,” he said.
The additional ₹26 crore was released in the second phase to boost funding for Bhadrak, Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, Kataka, and Kendujhar, along with supplementary support for Baleshwar and Mayurbhanj.
Direct Aid to Affected Districts
He further stated that the financial assistance is being funnelled directly to district administrations to expedite aid to those affected. The relief package is designed to provide immediate support, including food supplies, essential materials, and compensation for damaged infrastructure. “The administration is working to ensure that aid reaches every affected individual, even in remote areas,” he said.
The minister further informed that the government has already distributed over 2,692 quintals of flattened rice (chuda), 90.5 quintals of rice, and large quantities of jaggery, along with 1,729 metric tons of animal feed. Furthermore, 8,708 tarpaulin sheets have been provided to families whose homes were damaged by the rains.
Inter-Departmental Relief Package
Recognising the significant impact on the farming community, the minister announced that a comprehensive package involving the Agriculture, Animal Resources, and Cooperative departments is being finalised. “Our discussions with the Agriculture Department regarding a special package will be presented in today’s cabinet meeting,” the minister noted.
He further informed that the government is supplying short-duration and mid-duration paddy seeds for replanting on submerged farmland, alongside support for vegetable growers.
Although initial reports list 504 damaged homes, Pujari has directed block-level officials to ensure even minor damage is not overlooked. “I have advised district administrations to ensure no one is left out. If any affected families have been missed in the initial database, they should submit their details to their nearest Gram Panchayat, Tehsil, or BDO office, along with photographs of the damage,” he added, promising that all verified claims will be processed.
The state has mobilized extensive resources to manage the crisis, deploying 17 ODRF teams, 7 NDRF teams, and 40 Fire Service units statewide. Although floodwaters have receded in most areas, the minister acknowledged continued waterlogging in a few pockets.
Central Assistance
Pujari also mentioned the importance of robust coordination between state and central systems for disaster management. “Today, the Central Government sent ₹500 crore in advance without waiting for us to request it. The mechanism between the Centre and the State during natural disasters ensures that whenever necessity arises, required assistance is extended,” he remarked.