Odisha Steps Up Rice Supply for Flood-Hit People, 4 Districts Asked to Seek Additional Stocks

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has stepped up food relief measures in flood-hit areas, directing authorities in four districts to arrange additional rice for people affected by the rising water levels and prolonged rainfall.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Rajesh Prabhakar Patil on Thursday asked the Collectors of Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur and Kendrapara to assess the situation in their respective districts and immediately submit requisitions for additional rice.

In a communication to the Collectors, the SRC highlighted the growing requirement for food grains in several low-lying gram panchayats and villages where flooding has disrupted normal life. The districts have been asked to ensure that relief supplies reach affected people without delay.

Community kitchens and emergency food distribution points have also been activated in vulnerable areas. Cooked meals are being provided at temporary shelters, while rice is being distributed at cut-off locations to assist people who are unable to return home or access their usual food supplies.

Under the relief provisions, each adult is entitled to 1 kg of rice per day, while children below 12 years will receive 500 grams daily. The district administrations have been instructed to calculate the quantity required based on the number of affected people and the expected duration of the relief operation.

The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department has been asked to ensure adequate stocks are dispatched to the affected districts on priority to prevent shortages.

Officials said the food relief arrangements will remain in place as long as necessary, with supplies to continue until floodwaters recede and displaced families are able to return to their homes.