Odisha CM conducts aerial survey of cyclone-hit districts
Patnaik says cyclone damaged crops, communication installations in many areas
BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik conducted an aerial survey of areas affected by cyclone Titli and consequent lood in the state.
The chief minister said the lood caused by the cyclone damaged crops and communication installations in many areas.
“Did an aerial survey of the lood affected areas in Gajapati, Rayagada and Ganjam districts; noted widespread damage to crops, roads, electrical installations etc. Rescue and relief operations are in full swing,” tweeted the Chief Minister.
He said the government is taking all measures to provide relief to the affected people.
“Maximum damage has been done to agricultural crops, roads and trees. The relief work is going on,” the Chief Minister said after the aerial survey.
He also appreciated efforts of Indian Navy divers in high-risk operations at Aska to save the lives of people marooned in their looded homes post-titli.
Meanwhile, the Odisha government rushed a team of rescuers after local media reported that 12 persons, including ive children, lost their lives while four others were missing due to a landslide in Gajapati district.
The incident occurred in Barghara village under Gangabada panchayat under Rayagada block when the cave, in which they had taken shelter, collapsed following incessant rain triggered by cyclone Titli on Thursday.
However, the oficials are yet to conirm the exact death toll.
“There are reports about the death of 12 people and missing of four persons in a landslide caused by heavy rains in Baraghara village in Gajapati district. We are verifying the reports,” said Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Bishnupada Sethi.
He said they can only conirm the death toll after the team returns from the spot. The SRC said the team would have to trek about 17 km, cutting the trees to reach the spot.
Patnaik expressed condolence over the tragic incident.
“The tragic incident of landslide in Gajapati has been most unfortunate. I extend my deepest condolence to the bereaved families,” said the Chief Minister.
Chief secretary Aditya Prasad Padhi said a team comprising of Gajapati district Superintendent of Police, subcollector, doctors and other oficials have gone to the landslide area.
He said the accident spot is located at the border of Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh and Raighar block and it is inaccessible.