Severe flooding has affected Odisha’s Ganjam and Gajapati districts following torrential rainfall associated with Cyclone Arnab. Rivers and streams are swelling, roads have been inundated, and landslides have disrupted connectivity in several areas.
The rising water levels have also raised concerns around Gandahati Waterfall in Gajapati district, where authorities have restricted access to tourist attractions and waterfalls amid the adverse weather.
Gandahati Waterfall Area Faces Heightened Risk
The continuous downpour has intensified the risk of sudden water surges in the region’s hilly terrain. Gandahati Waterfall, a popular tourist attraction in Gajapati, is among the sites affected by the prevailing weather conditions.
Visitors have been advised to stay away from waterfalls and other vulnerable locations as the administration monitors the situation.
Rivers Swell, Villages Face Flooding
In Gajapati, the Bansadhara River has risen above the danger mark at Kashinagar, while the Mahendratanaya River has inundated parts of Baghasala village. Officials are also monitoring the possibility of floodwater entering low-lying areas of Paralakhemundi.
Landslides and damaged roads have further complicated movement in some parts of the district.
Ganjam has also reported widespread disruption. Heavy rain has inundated low-lying areas and agricultural fields, while rising water levels in the Ghodahada River have affected road connectivity. Several villages have been cut off by floodwaters, prompting authorities to intensify rescue operations.
Rescue Operations Intensified
The Odisha government is coordinating with central authorities to evacuate people stranded in flood-hit areas. Teams from the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are engaged in rescue efforts, including operations using boats.
Plans have also been made to airlift stranded residents, although persistent rain and low cloud cover could delay helicopter operations.
Authorities continue to monitor river levels, rainfall and vulnerable locations. Residents in low-lying areas have been urged to follow official advisories, avoid flooded roads and stay away from swollen rivers and waterfalls as the situation develops.