BHUBANESWAR : Following heavy rainfall in Odisha, more than 22 out of the state’s 30 districts have been affected by floods. A total of 8,63,909 people have been impacted by the recent inundation, out of which 2,67,301 individuals were evacuated and shifted to safer locations, said Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, state Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari said that while floodwaters have started receding in most areas, the government has directed the district administration to keep affected residents in relief centres until the water completely drains out from villages.

“The floodwaters have started receding in most areas. 22 out of 30 districts in Odisha were affected, covering 85 blocks and 656 Gram Panchayats, 1,458 villages… Many Urban Local Bodies were also affected. A total of, 8,63,909 people were affected by the recent floods, out of which, 2,67,301 people were evacuated and taken to safer locations… We have directed the district administration to keep the affected residents in these centers until the floodwaters in their original villages have completely drained out…” said Pujari.

Earlier, Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling on July 30 announced special measures to ensure maternal care and emergency medical assistance amid the flood situation in the state.

Speaking to reporters here, Mahaling said the Health Department is focusing on the safe evacuation of pregnant women, timely hospital transfers, and addressing the rise in snakebite incidents during floods.

“Highlighting the key challenges during floods, Mahaling said that shifting pregnant women to safer locations and transporting them to hospitals remains a priority. He added that snakebite cases also tend to rise during flood situations. A review committee, headed by the Principal Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, has been constituted to monitor and coordinate flood-related health measures”, he said.

Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasised that the government is fully committed to protecting and assisting every affected family.

He also mentioned that an assistance package of Rs 110 crore has been announced, with Rs 26 crore already being provided to the affected.

“As the current flood situation gradually normalizes, our government is fully committed to the protection and assistance of every affected family. After assessing the situation in the forest areas, an initial assistance package of Rs. 110 crore has been announced for the affected. In addition, an advance assistance of Rs. 26 crore has already been provided.

Rescue operations are underway on a war footing by ODRAF, NDRF and fire brigades along with provision of food, drinking water and fodder through relief camps. All essential services and assistance will continue until the situation returns to normal,” CM Majhi posted on X on Monday. (ANI)