Odisha Minister Suresh Pujari reviews heavy‑rain preparedness

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari chaired a high‑level review of the state’s preparations for continuous heavy rain caused by a deep low‑pressure system over the north‑west Bay of Bengal. He ordered district administrations to remain on 24‑hour alert and to ensure rapid response, shelter, cooked food, dry rations, drinking water and other relief measures, stating that “human life is the government's top priority.”

The Indian Meteorological Department warned that the low‑pressure area could move north‑westward, bringing extreme rainfall to districts such as Mayurbhanj, Jagatsinghpur, Kendujhar, Balasore, Badrak, Kalaudi and Sundergarh, and issued red alerts for the most vulnerable zones. Since 1 July, Odisha has recorded 517.6 mm of rain – about 75 % above the seasonal average – but major rivers remain below warning levels and no serious incidents have been reported. The State Emergency Operations Centre is monitoring conditions around the clock, while district authorities have activated evacuation plans, local flood‑relief actions and distribution of essential services.