Odisha Faces Severe Flood Threat as Mahanadi Discharge Expected to Reach 800,000 Cusecs

Hindustan Times•Published: Sep 27, 2026 03:38 PM IST

A significant flood threat is looming over Odisha as the Mahanadi river system prepares for a massive discharge of 800,000 cusecs through Mundali by Monday morning. The rising water levels are expected to impact low-lying areas across Khurda, Cuttack, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur districts, while northern regions already grapple with overflowing rivers.

Mahanadi Discharge: Officials expect water flow through Mundali to reach 800,000 cusecs by Monday morning, posing a severe risk to downstream regions.
Affected Districts: Low-lying areas in Khurda, Cuttack, Puri, and Jagatsinghpur are on high alert as multiple tributaries and distributaries of the Mahanadi system swell.
Northern Inundation: Rivers including the Baitarani, Salandi, and Subarnarekha are currently flowing above danger levels, causing significant damage to farmland and road connectivity.
Official Response: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi conducted an aerial survey of the affected districts to assess the extent of the damage and coordinate relief efforts.

The Context & Background

These floods follow a period of heavy rainfall that has already displaced thousands and damaged critical infrastructure across the state. The Odisha Water Resources department continues to monitor the situation closely as the state remains one of India's most disaster-prone regions.

Why it matters:The impending flood surge threatens the livelihoods of thousands of residents and risks widespread destruction of agricultural land and essential road infrastructure. Effective disaster management and timely evacuations are critical to minimizing casualties and long-term economic impact in these vulnerable districts.

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