Cyclone Arnab: Flood Situation Worsens in Southern Odisha, Landslides Block Ghat Roads

The situation in southern Odisha has turned critical following the landfall of Cyclone Arnab, with incessant rainfall triggering flood-like conditions in Koraput, Ganjam, Gajapati and Kandhamal districts. Several areas have been inundated, with floodwater flowing onto national highways and disrupting road connectivity. Landslides have also been reported at Kalinga Ghat, the Salur-Sunki Ghat stretch and near Taptapani, raising concerns over the safety of commuters.

Heavy rainfall over the past two days has left several areas waterlogged, creating a sea-like appearance in some locations. The situation has become particularly concerning in hilly regions, where landslides have blocked roads and damaged protective structures. Commuters had narrow escapes in some places as debris and rocks fell onto roads.

Landslide Blocks Kalinga Ghat Road

A fresh landslide has occurred at Kalinga Ghat along the Ganjam-Kandhamal border following two days of continuous rainfall. Large boulders and soil have fallen onto the road, bringing traffic movement between the two districts to a complete halt.

The administration had sealed Kalinga Ghat ahead of Cyclone Arnab as a precautionary measure. However, continued rainfall has triggered another landslide, further complicating the situation.

The stretch had also witnessed a landslide during recent rainfall caused by a low-pressure system. The incident led to soil erosion on the hillside and damage to a guard wall. Repeated landslides have raised concerns as repair work on the ghat road was yet to be completed before the latest spell of heavy rain.

Landslide Reported at Salur-Sunki Ghat

Koraput district has also been affected by landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. Soil and rocks have slipped from hillsides at several locations along the Salur-Sunki Ghat road, while a guard wall has been damaged.

Trees have also fallen across the road, posing additional challenges for commuters and potentially disrupting traffic movement.

The district administration is monitoring the situation and has advised people to remain alert while travelling through vulnerable areas.

A landslide has also been reported on the road leading to the Deomali mountain range from Kinduli Chhak in Koraput district. The incident has affected traffic movement along the route.

Soil Slips Block Road Near Taptapani

Another landslide has been reported at Belagarh near Taptapani, along the Ganjam-Gajapati border. A portion of the hillside gave way following heavy post-cyclone rainfall, blocking the road and disrupting vehicular movement.

The latest incidents highlight the growing risk of landslides in hilly areas of southern Odisha following prolonged rainfall.

With floodwater inundating several areas and landslides disrupting road connectivity, the situation remains a major concern across the affected districts. People have been advised to exercise caution, particularly while travelling through hilly stretches and landslide-prone roads.