Bhubaneswar: The Indian Coast Guard deployed a helicopter to strengthen the rescue operations in Odisha’s Ganjam district, where heavy rain and flash floods triggered by cyclone Arnab have marooned around 300 villages. 

This was revealed by the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) in Odisha on Thursday.

“The Indian Coast Guard helicopter has commenced rescue operations in Ganjam district,” said the SRC office in a social media post.

Earlier, Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena had informed that the authorities might opt for airlift operations to rescue the marooned villagers, including those of Sindurapalli and Mundamarai.

“The state government plans to airlift 120 people in Ganjam district in the first phase. The Indian Coast Guard would provide a helicopter and make the necessary arrangements in this regard,” Chief Secretary Anu Garg had informed the media.

According to the Chief Secretary, the state government had contacted the Ministry of Home Affairs and urged it to take the necessary steps for airlift of the marooned people in Ganjam.

The Indian Coast Guard helicopter has commenced rescue operations in Ganjam district.@CMO_Odisha @SecyChief @rdmodisha @IPR_Odisha @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/xbBBtzCBCE

— SRC, Govt of Odisha (@SRC_Odisha) October 29, 2026