Raipur : The Chhattisgarh Government has intensified its preparedness measures in view of the rising water levels in the Mahanadi River, with Finance Minister OP Choudhary conducting a virtual review meeting with senior officials and public representatives to assess flood preparedness and coordinate relief efforts.
During the meeting, the Minister reviewed the water level of the Mahanadi, the readiness of relief and rescue operations, and the coordination among various government departments to ensure an effective response in the event of flooding.
Administration on High Alert in Mahanadi River Basin
The Finance Minister said that the administration is maintaining a close watch on the Mahanadi river basin, particularly in vulnerable areas where water levels have been steadily rising.
According to the Minister, special attention is being given to:
- Mahanadi riverside villages in Raigarh district
- Saria region in Sarangarh-Bilaigarh district
- Chandrapur area and other villages situated along the riverbanks
He stated that the State Government is continuously monitoring the evolving situation with complete seriousness and vigilance.
Coordination with Odisha Government
OP Choudhary emphasized that all concerned departments of the Chhattisgarh Government are working in close coordination with the Government of Odisha to effectively manage the river’s water levels and minimize the possibility of flood-related damage.
He informed that continuous coordination is also being maintained regarding the operation of the Hirakud Dam gates, as the regulation of water releases plays a crucial role in controlling downstream water levels in the Mahanadi basin.
The Minister said the objective is to reduce the potential impact of flooding through timely communication and coordinated water management.
Relief and Rescue Teams Kept Ready
Reviewing disaster preparedness, the Minister directed officials to ensure that:
- Sensitive and flood-prone areas are monitored round the clock.
- Relief and rescue teams remain fully prepared for immediate deployment.
- Essential equipment and emergency resources are available wherever required.
- Coordination among various departments remains seamless throughout the flood season.
He instructed officials to remain alert and respond promptly to any changes in the water level.
Appeal to Citizens to Follow Official Advisories
The Finance Minister appealed to residents living in vulnerable areas to cooperate fully with the administration in case flood conditions develop.
He urged citizens to:
- Follow all official instructions issued by the district administration.
- Move to safer locations whenever advised by authorities.
- Avoid spreading or believing rumors related to flood situations.
- Extend full cooperation to relief and rescue personnel.
The Minister stressed that public cooperation is essential for ensuring the safety of lives and property during any emergency.
Public Representatives Asked to Support Relief Efforts
OP Choudhary also appealed to public representatives to actively assist the administration by creating awareness among local residents and facilitating coordination at the grassroots level.
He said elected representatives can play an important role in disseminating accurate information and encouraging people to comply with official safety measures.
Government Confident of Effective Disaster Response
Expressing confidence in the state’s disaster management mechanism, the Minister said the combined efforts of the government, district administration, and citizens would enable Chhattisgarh to effectively deal with any potential flood situation.
He reiterated that protecting human lives and property remains the government’s highest priority, and assured that every possible step is being taken to ensure timely preparedness and response.
Key Highlights
- Finance Minister OP Choudhary chaired a virtual review meeting on flood preparedness.
- Rising Mahanadi River water levels are being closely monitored.
- Special vigilance has been ordered in Raigarh, Sarangarh-Bilaigarh, Saria, and Chandrapur riverbank areas.
- The Chhattisgarh Government is coordinating closely with the Odisha Government regarding Hirakud Dam water management.
- Officials have been instructed to keep relief and rescue teams fully prepared.
- Citizens have been advised to follow official advisories, cooperate with the administration, and avoid rumors.
- The government has reaffirmed that public safety and protection of life and property remain its top priority.
As water levels continue to rise in parts of the Mahanadi basin, the Chhattisgarh Government has stepped up monitoring and disaster preparedness measures. Through coordinated action, inter-state cooperation, and public participation, the administration aims to minimize the impact of any potential flooding and ensure the safety and well-being of affected communities.
