Odisha Floods Triggered by Cyclone Arnab: No Lapse in Management, Says Chief Secretary
Odisha Floods Triggered by Cyclone Arnab: No Lapse in Management, Says Chief Secretary
IN · Published Nov 12, 2026
• Odisha's Chief Secretary Anu Garg has clarified that the recent floods in Ganjam district were caused by unprecedented rainfall due to Cyclone Arnab, not due to mismanagement. Patrapur block recorded 546 mm of rain in 24 hours, while other areas received over 300 mm during the same period. The Rushikulya river saw a water flow of 6,907 cumecs at the Purusottampur gauge station, which is double its carrying capacity. The rainfall was noted as the highest in the region since 1990-
• Garg emphasised that reservoir operations were conducted with safety as the priority, ensuring dam integrity and minimising risks to human lives.

Impact & Risks

The extreme rainfall and subsequent flooding have severely impacted Ganjam district, particularly areas near the Rushikulya and Bahuda river systems. The uncontrolled runoff from 90% of the catchment area exacerbated the situation. Floodwaters have disrupted daily life, damaged infrastructure, and posed risks to human safety. However, the government has assured that measures were taken to prevent loss of life and ensure reservoir safety during the crisis.

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