Baripada: In the wake of widespread damage caused by a hailstorm in Mayurbhanj district, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari visited affected areas like Mahulbareli and Sarasposhi in Bangiriposhi to assess the situation.
Pujari promised help for victims by evening. Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra joined him to review the damage.
The Revenue Minister told reporters that the damage report had been finalised and compensation funds would be credited online by evening. He emphasised that those without Aadhaar-linked bank accounts would receive their compensation through direct cash transfer.
“Government is committed to providing immediate relief to the affected people. The compiled report has enabled the administration to process compensation payments swiftly. By this evening, all eligible residents will receive their financial aid via online transfer,” said Pujari.
Around 4,775 people across 47 villages in 19 gram panchayats felt the storm’s impact. These villages are in Bangariposhi, Bisoi, Kuliana, Saraskana, and Karanjia blocks.
The storm destroyed 350 kutcha houses completely. It severely damaged 11 more kutcha homes and partially wrecked 295 others. Four cowsheds also suffered harm. Electricity, water supply, and roads took a hit too. To support the affected, the government opened relief centres. They shifted people to these safe spots. Officials handed out 127 polythene rolls to those who lost homes. Five medical teams are now working to treat the injured quickly.
“Bisoi and Bangirposi blocks have been severely hit in the hailstorm. While 350 houses were completely damaged, over 250 other dwelling units have been partially affected by the hailstorm that hit the area. As many as 18 villages under Bisoi and 39 villages of Bangiriposi block have been affected,” according to Mayurbhanj Collector Hema Kanta Say.
