Bhubaneswar, July 30: Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Thursday said that the ongoing flood situation has affected nearly six lakh people across five districts, with Jajpur, Bhadrak and Balasore emerging as the worst-hit areas, followed by Mayurbhanj and Kendujhar.

Addressing the media, the Minister said the state government has shifted around 1.65 lakh people from vulnerable locations to safer places and established 464 relief camps equipped with essential facilities. Dry food packets are being distributed to families stranded in waterlogged areas, while residents of low-lying regions have been urged to move to relief centres immediately.

Pujari directed all district collectors to ensure timely distribution of relief materials and proper care for every affected person. He said the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast no major rainfall over the next three days, raising hopes of a gradual improvement in the flood situation.

The Minister instructed officials to complete damage assessment surveys within three days after floodwaters recede, stressing that the process should be carried out with compassion. He also ordered adequate food, safe drinking water, healthcare, security, anti-snake venom stocks and medical teams in affected areas, while assuring that returning families would receive tarpaulins and other essential relief materials.

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