Key Points

A devastating landslide and flooding in Odisha's Gajapati district claimed two lives, prompting Chief Minister Mohan Majhi to announce immediate relief. The tragedy occurred due to heavy rainfall triggered by a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal. Two villagers, Trinath Nayak and Lakshman Nayak, lost their lives in separate incidents of flooding and landslides. Rescue teams are still searching for a missing father-son duo, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the affected region.

Key Points: Odisha CM Mohan Majhi Mourns Gajapati Landslide Tragedy

  • Two lives lost in Gajapati district due to heavy rainfall and landslides
  • CM directs Rs 4 lakh compensation for victims' families
  • Low-pressure area over Bay of Bengal triggered widespread damage
  • Rescue operations continue for missing father-son duo
2 min read

Odisha: CM Mohan Majhi expresses grief over landslide and flood deaths; announces aid

Odisha CM announces Rs 4 lakh aid for families of two deceased after fatal landslides and floods in Gajapati district

"After coming to know about the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep grief - Chief Minister's Office"

Bhubaneswar, Oct 3

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday expressed grief over the death of two persons caused by flooding and a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall in Gajapati district on October 2.

According to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Trinath Nayak of Bastriguda Gram Panchayat and Lakshman Nayak of Meripalli Gram Panchayat lost their lives in separate incidents of flooding and landslides following incessant rains in the region.

"After coming to know about the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep grief and directed the District Collector of Gajapati to provide an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)," informed the CMO.

Heavy rainfall on October 2 due to the low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal led to widespread damage, including landslides, flash floods, and road blockages across various parts of Gajapati district.

In one such incident, a landslide occurred in Bastriguda village under R. Udayagiri police limits at around 4.30 p.m. on Thursday, claiming the life of 50-year-old Trinath Nayak, a resident of the village.

Similarly, 40-year-old Laxman Mallik of village Bandhaguda of Mohana area in Gajapati district washed away in Ludru Nala due to heavy flow of water while trying to rescue his calf on Thursday evening. His body was recovered from Ludru Nala water on Friday morning.

Meanwhile, despite the lapse of more than 24 hours, the rescue teams are yet to trace 35-year-old Rajika Sabar and his elderly father Kartik Sabar of Mahulsahi village of Gajapati who reportedly trapped under debris during a massive landslide near the village.

Police sources claimed that the father and son duo had gone to the agriculture field for work on Thursday morning.

Landslide occurred near their field at about 1.30 p.m.

As they didn't return, the villagers suspect that they might have been buried due to landslides. Meanwhile, some also suspect that they may be missing near Nala due to flooding.

It is pertinent here to mention several parts of the state witnessed massive rainfall on Thursday due to a low-pressure area formed off the Odisha Coast.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Heartbreaking to read about Lakshman Nayak who died while trying to save his calf. Shows how farmers risk everything for their livestock. Hope the rescue teams find the missing father-son duo soon. CM's announcement of ₹4 lakh compensation is a good step.
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Aditya G
These landslides in Gajapati are becoming too frequent. The government should invest in proper slope stabilization and early warning systems rather than just giving compensation after tragedies occur. Prevention is better than cure.
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Sarah B
As someone who has visited Odisha, I know how beautiful but vulnerable these hilly regions are. The authorities need to ensure that development doesn't compromise environmental safety. Thoughts with all affected families during this difficult time.
K
Karthik V
₹4 lakh compensation is good but money can't bring back loved ones. The real tribute would be ensuring such incidents don't repeat. Odisha government should learn from states like Kerala that have better disaster preparedness systems.
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Nisha Z
Praying for the safe return of Rajika Sabar and his father Kartik Sabar. It's been more than 24 hours already - hope the rescue teams intensify their efforts. The uncertainty must be unbearable for their family. 💔

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