The first major flood of the year has disrupted road connectivity in Malkangiri district, with nearly three feet of floodwater flowing over the Kanyashram Bridge.
The situation has affected movement between Kalimela and Padiya, as well as connectivity with neighbouring Chhattisgarh. With water flowing across the bridge, hundreds of vehicles have reportedly been stranded on both sides, leaving commuters facing significant difficulties.
As the water level continues to rise, concerns over the safety of commuters have intensified. Authorities have advised people not to use the bridge as crossing it has become dangerous amid the strong flow of floodwater.
New Bridge Still Incomplete
The flood situation has also brought renewed attention to the construction of a new bridge near the old Kanyashram Bridge. Although construction work has reportedly been underway for the past seven to eight years, the project is yet to be completed.
Local residents said that had the new bridge been completed on time, the connectivity problems faced by people in the area during the flood could have been reduced to some extent.
Police, Forest Officials Deployed
In view of the rising floodwater, police and Forest Department officials have been deployed near the Kanyashram Bridge. Movement over the bridge has been restricted in the interest of public safety.
The administration is closely monitoring the situation as the water level continues to rise, while efforts are focused on preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of people stranded on either side of the flooded bridge.