Ganjam, Odisha : The flood situation in southern Odisha’s Ganjam district has turned critical following continuous heavy rainfall triggered by Cyclone Arnab. Several villages have been inundated, roads have been submerged, and connectivity has been severely disrupted, leaving residents stranded in affected areas.

The rising water level of the Rushikulya River has heightened concerns, with the river crossing the danger mark at Purushottampur. Several areas of Sorada and Sheragada blocks have also been affected by flooding.

Rushikulya River Swells, Villages Remain Marooned

The rising water level of the Rushikulya and Nandini rivers has triggered flood-like conditions across parts of Ganjam district. Residential areas have been inundated, while roads connecting Asika with Berhampur and Sorada have reportedly been disrupted.

Following the review, she said arrangements were being made to airlift around 120 people stranded at four locations in Ganjam district. The state government has contacted the Union Home Ministry to coordinate the operation, with Coast Guard helicopters expected to assist in evacuating those trapped by floodwaters.

Villages including B. Brahmapur, Kritipur and Narayanpur in Sheragada block remain affected by floodwaters, with road connectivity severely hampered. Residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to remain cautious and follow official safety instructions.

120 People to Be Airlifted from Four Locations

Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg reviewed the post-cyclone situation and ongoing relief measures at Rajiv Bhavan.

15 ODRAF Teams to Reach Ganjam

To strengthen rescue and relief operations, 15 Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) teams are being mobilised for Ganjam district.

Teams from Khordha, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Cuttack and Bhadrak have been dispatched to support local authorities. Rescue personnel are expected to assist in evacuations, provide emergency support and help restore access to affected areas.

Patrapur Records 546 mm Rainfall in 24 Hours

Extremely heavy rainfall has contributed to the worsening flood situation in southern Odisha. According to the rainfall figures provided by the state administration, the highest rainfall during the past 24 hours was recorded at Patrapur.

The recorded rainfall figures include:

• Patrapur: 546 mm
• G. Udayagiri: 462.4 mm
• Sanakhemundi: 388 mm
• Raikia: 384.8 mm
• Sorada: 375 mm
• Chikiti: 309.2 mm

The intense rainfall has increased river levels and raised the risk of further flooding in low-lying areas.

Train Services Affected in Srikakulam

The Chief Secretary also said that waterlogging on a railway bridge in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, had affected train movement. The state government is in contact with railway authorities, and arrangements are being made to assist affected passengers.

Administration on High Alert

Although Cyclone Arnab has weakened after making landfall, its impact continues through heavy rainfall and flooding across southern Odisha. Authorities are monitoring river levels and coordinating rescue operations to protect residents in vulnerable locations.

People living near rivers and in low-lying areas have been advised to avoid flooded roads, bridges and fast-flowing water. The immediate priority remains rescuing stranded residents and ensuring that essential assistance reaches affected villages.