In view of the heavy rainfall and flood-like situations in Balangir, Boudh, Kalahandi, Subarnapur and Kandhamal districts, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik reviewed the scenario here on Tuesday and directed officials to keep a close watch on the developments round the clock.
Patnaik asked all the departments to remain alert to provide assistance to the affected people. He interacted with the concerned Collectors through videoconferencing and inquired about their requirements to tackle the situations.
As the situation is grim in Balangir town due to torrential rains, a decision was taken to send three more ODRAF teams there. Earlier in the day, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Bishnupada Sethi said eight people have so far lost their lives in rains and flood-related mishaps in the State.
While two persons died in Kalahandi district, Nabarangpur, Kandhamal, Malkangiri recorded one death each either due to flash floods, snakebites or mudslides.
Sethi said that in last 24 hours several parts of western and southwestern Odisha along with interior areas have experienced extremely heavy rainfall with as many as five districts recording more than 100 mm of average rainfall.
Balangir has recorded the highest 226.3 mm rainfall followed by Boudh 169.7 mm, Kalahandi 160.4 mm, Sonepur 139.6 mm and Kandhamal 125.3 mm.
At least 40 blocks of five districts have received more than 200 mm of average rainfall during the time.
With the India Meteorological Department(IMD) forecasting more rainfall in the next 24 hours, the SRC said that apart from warning for possible flood situation, ODRAF and Fire Services teams have been mobilised in the districts of Boudh, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Malkangiri, Rayagada and Kandhamal.
While rivers in most districts flowed below danger marks, the SRC further informed that hundreds of people have been evacuated to safer places from low-lying areas in the affected districts.