JEYPORE: Heavy rainfall triggered flash floods and inundation in several areas of Koraput on Monday, disrupting normal life and prompting the district administration to evacuate around 150 families from vulnerable villages to relief centres.
On the day, Jeypore recorded the highest rainfall of 96 mm followed by Borigumma (75.6 mm), Kundra (62 mm), Dasmantpur (60 mm), Semiliguda (58.3 mm), Lamtaput and Boipariguda (58 mm each), and Koraput (56 mm).
Following the downpour, flash floods were reported in Indravati region. Floodwaters gushed into three panchayats of Guali, Sadaranga and Gumuda, forcing authorities to evacuate villagers from the submerged areas.
Water level in several major rivers and their tributaries, including Indravati, Saberi, Kolab, Saptadhara, Patali and Surli, has risen sharply following the heavy downpour, raising concerns among people living along the riverbanks in Jeypore, Kotpad, Borigumma and Kundra blocks.
Preliminary reports indicate that more than 2,000 hectares of paddy, maize and sugarcane crops have been waterlogged in the four blocks. The incessant rain has also affected road communication and normal activities in several parts of the district.
Officials said the administration is on high alert and evacuation is being carried out on an urgent basis from villages facing waterlogging. The affected families have been shifted to relief centres and special kitchens have been arranged for them.
The administration has made arrangements for relief and food for the evacuated families, while block and revenue officials have been directed to continuously monitor the situation in vulnerable areas.
People living in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert and cooperate with evacuation teams whenever required, said officials.
With the weather conditions continuing to remain adverse and rivers running high, the administration is maintaining a close watch on vulnerable villages and riverbanks to prevent any loss of life and property.