Bhubaneswar: Heavy rainfall triggered by a low-pressure system has severely disrupted normal life across western Odisha, prompting the state government to declare a holiday for schools in six districts on Monday.

The districts where schools have been closed are Nuapada, Kandhamal, Boudh, Sambalpur, Balangir, and Subarnapur.

In Subarnapur, the District Collector ordered the closure of all schools and colleges due to the forecast of extremely heavy rainfall. In Boudh, the district administration announced a holiday for all schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres. The Collector also cancelled the scheduled joint public grievance hearing camp in view of the continuous downpour.

Sambalpur faces waterlogging

Sambalpur witnessed intense overnight rainfall, leaving several low-lying areas submerged. Considering the flood-like situation, the District Collector declared a holiday for all schools under the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) and Dhankauda block.

Rainwater entered several residential areas, forcing the district administration into action. The District Collector and the Municipal Commissioner conducted a late-night inspection of the affected localities to assess the situation and oversee relief measures.

According to official data, Dhankauda block recorded 158.1 mm of rainfall during the last 24 hours, while the SMC New Building area at Durgapali received the highest rainfall of 180.5 mm.

Artificial flooding in Subarnapur

In Subarnapur, heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms led to severe waterlogging on the stretch from Jayaguru Chhak to Kacheri Chhak, creating an artificial flood-like situation and affecting traffic movement.

Depression keeps rainfall active

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed the widespread rainfall to a depression over southern Jharkhand and adjoining northern interior Odisha. Under its influence, western and northern parts of Odisha have been witnessing widespread rainfall for the third consecutive day, with authorities closely monitoring the evolving weather situation.