Bhubaneswar: Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari Thursday directed officials to expedite the construction of multi-purpose cyclone and flood shelters across the state while reviewing the flood situation and ongoing relief and restoration measures.
Chairing a review meeting, Pujari said the assessment of damage caused by the recent floods is progressing rapidly, with reports continuing to pour in from affected areas. He said the government has ensured that damage assessment is carried out within 72 hours after floodwaters recede to facilitate early relief and compensation. The minister said the state government has already released Rs 110 crore as financial assistance to 22 flood-affected districts. Of the total allocation, Baleshwar received Rs 22.03 crore, Jajpur Rs 20.20 crore, Bhadrak Rs 20.12 crore, Jagatsinghpur Rs 8.18 crore, Kendujhar Rs 6.11 crore, Sambalpur Rs 5.56 crore, Kendrapada Rs 5.04 crore and Mayurbhanj Rs 5.02 crore.
Pujari said the state recorded 65 per cent higher rainfall in July this year compared to the corresponding month last year, with some areas receiving rainfall up to 97 per cent above normal, resulting in widespread flooding. Although floodwaters have receded in several rivers, he said water levels continue to remain high in some areas. District administrations have been instructed to submit detailed reports on damage to public infrastructure by 5 pm on the following day.
The minister said a comprehensive review meeting involving District Collectors, Block Development Officers (BDOs), Tehsildars and senior officials of various departments has been scheduled to formulate measures for flood mitigation, repair of breached embankments, desilting and deepening of riverbeds, and other restoration works. Pujari said ministers and senior government officials have already visited the affected districts to assess the flood situation and the extent of damage. Based on their field reports, the state government has decided to expedite the disbursement of compensation and other assistance to the affected people.
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