What Should Odisha Do About the IMD Alert on Flash Floods?
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Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is rallying district collectors to prepare for potential flash floods due to heavy rainfall from a low-pressure system. As 17 districts brace for impact, learn how local authorities are gearing up to protect residents and manage emergencies effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's CM emphasizes preparedness for heavy rainfall.
- 17 districts under alert for potential flash floods.
- Control rooms to operate 24/7.
- Emergency services on standby.
- Residents in vulnerable areas to be relocated.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 27 (NationPress) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has urged collectors from 17 districts to stay alert and ready for any emergencies that may arise due to heavy rainfall caused by a new low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. He warned that the incessant rain could lead to flash floods in urban and low-lying areas within their jurisdictions.
During a high-level review meeting conducted via video conference from Jharsuguda, CM Majhi discussed the situation with district collectors who may be impacted by the impending rainfall.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that three districts—Koraput, Malkangiri, and Kalahandi—are expected to face severe impacts from the rainfall induced by the low-pressure area, with alerts also issued for an additional 14 districts, including Nabarangpur, Nuapada, Balangir, Rayagada, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Ganjam, Nayagarh, Puri, Khordha, Dhenkanal, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, and Kendrapara.
Taking into consideration the predicted heavy rainfall, the Chief Minister engaged in discussions with the collectors about necessary preparedness measures.
CM Majhi instructed the collectors to ensure that control rooms at both the district and block levels are operational 24/7, consistently updating information received through these centers.
He cautioned that intense rainfall could lead to flood-like conditions in both urban and low-lying regions. Therefore, he directed district collectors to guarantee that drainage engineers and relevant officials are well-equipped and ready to handle such scenarios.
Majhi also mandated urban local bodies to implement proactive strategies for managing stormwater drainage in areas susceptible to waterlogging due to the impending rainfall.
He advised collectors to maintain stringent oversight over vulnerable points along river and canal embankments. The Chief Minister also required the immediate readiness of ODRAF and Fire Service units in areas at risk of flash floods.
In addition, he called for the identification of hilly regions that may experience landslides as a result of the rainfall, particularly emphasizing caution in Malkangiri district.
During the meeting, officials reported that multipurpose cyclone/flood shelters are prepared with sufficient supplies of food and essential items.
Majhi urged the relocation of residents from vulnerable low-lying areas to these shelters and emphasized the importance of providing them with cooked meals. He also instructed officials to stockpile adequate medical supplies, including anti-venom injections and animal feed.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the proactive measures being taken by the Odisha government under CM Majhi's leadership. These steps reflect a commitment to public safety and disaster preparedness, which should serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in Odisha are most at risk for flash floods?
According to the IMD, districts such as Koraput, Malkangiri, and Kalahandi are expected to be severely affected, with additional alerts for 14 other districts.
What preparations are being made to handle potential emergencies?
District collectors have been directed to ensure 24/7 operation of control rooms and to prepare drainage systems and emergency services for potential flooding.
What actions are being taken for residents in vulnerable areas?
The Chief Minister has advised relocating residents from low-lying areas to shelters and ensuring adequate supplies of food and medical assistance.
