ODRAF Rescues Over 8,000 as Floods Hit Balasore, Mayurbhanj

Bhubaneswar: In response to incessant rainfall and rising river levels in North Odisha, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has launched extensive rescue and relief operations in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts. The continuous downpour has caused flood-like conditions in several low-lying areas, with rivers such as the Subarnarekha, Budhabalanga, and Jalaka swelling beyond danger levels.

According to an official press note issued by the Odisha Police, more than 8,191 people from 18 blocks in the two affected districts have been safely evacuated and relocated to safer locations by ODRAF personnel. The operations are being carried out in close coordination with Odisha Fire Services and under the direct supervision of Dr. Satyajit Naik, DIG (Eastern Range), Balasore.

In Balasore, over 2,000 people have been rescued from flood-prone areas such as Baliapal, Bhograi, Basta, Kamarda, and Singla. Meanwhile, in Mayurbhanj, more than 6,000 residents from Saraskana, Rasgovindpur, Badasahi, Betanati, and Baripada have been shifted to safety.

A total of 11 ODRAF teams—six in Mayurbhanj and five in Balasore—have been deployed on the ground. The teams are actively engaged in evacuating stranded people, conducting awareness drives, issuing flood alerts, and moving residents to designated relief shelters.

Authorities have assured that round-the-clock monitoring and support will continue to ensure the safety of residents and minimize loss of life and property as rainfall persists across the region.