Bhubaneswar: With several parts of Odisha witnessing heavy rain and fresh floods, Chief Secretary Anu Garg on Sunday reviewed the situation and held discussions with Collectors of the affected districts to assess relief and rescue measures.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, heavy rainfall is expected across the state from August 16 to 18. Rainfall is likely to intensify on August 17, ease somewhat on August 18 and the situation is expected to improve by August 19.

All government officials have been directed to remain in the field, while leave of officials has been cancelled in view of the prevailing situation.

The state has received 953 mm of rainfall between June 1 and August 16, which is 27 per cent above normal. As of today, 49 blocks, five urban areas and 331 gram panchayats have been affected by the floods. Around 5.15 lakh people have been affected, while 2.37 lakh people have been evacuated. A total of 293 relief camps have been opened across the affected areas, said the Chief Secretary.

Senior officers with previous experience in flood management will be deployed in Bhadrak, Balasore and Jajpur to assist the respective Collectors. An Additional Chief Engineer from the Water Resources Department has also been deployed, she added.

According to the state government, the requirements of all affected districts have been assessed and supply operations are continuing. Water Resources Department personnel are working round the clock, while damage assessment is underway. Repairs to breaches will be taken up after the floodwater recedes.

“Power restoration efforts are underway. TPNODL officials are working in the field and electricity supply is expected to be restored wherever possible by this evening. The Urban Development Department has deployed Rapid Action Teams in affected urban areas,” said the Chief Secretary.

The Animal Resources Development Department has stocked 5,000 quintals of cattle feed, while 36 Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) have been deployed. Health teams are also active in the affected areas, with Community Medicine teams from medical colleges stationed at relief camps. Adequate anti-snake venom has been stocked, and RRTs are conducting field visits twice a day.

Authorities have also stepped up public awareness regarding crocodile attacks and advised people not to venture into dangerous areas to watch floodwater or take selfies.

The government maintained that there has been no mismanagement in urban areas and assured that immediate action would be taken if any information regarding problems is received. Collectors have also instructed officials to resolve relief-related issues without delay.

Although water levels had been receding in some areas earlier, renewed rainfall has raised concerns. Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official advisories as further rain is expected over the next few days.