Berhampur, October 30: As the swollen Rushikulya River continues to wreak havoc across Odisha’s Ganjam district, fear and helplessness have gripped riverside communities. With floodwaters entering homes, submerging roads and disrupting normal life, residents of Brahmanachhai village in Sheragada block have turned to prayers in the hope of protecting their settlement from the rising waters.

In an emotional display of faith, villagers gathered along the riverbank to perform religious rituals, break coconuts and offer prayers to Mother Rushikulya. Amid the ringing of temple bells and chants of ‘Haribol’, residents appealed for the river to recede and spare their homes from further destruction.

The unusual scene reflects the anxiety of communities struggling to cope with the worsening flood situation, as a river that has long sustained their livelihoods has now become a source of fear.

Cyclone Arnab Triggers Widespread Flooding in Ganjam

The impact of Cyclone Arnab has intensified the flood situation across several parts of Ganjam district, with the Rushikulya and Nandini rivers overflowing following heavy rainfall.

Areas stretching from Asika to Sheragada, Dharakote and Berhampur have reported extensive inundation, affecting residential localities, roads, markets and public infrastructure.

The situation in Asika is particularly concerning. The local bus stand has been submerged, while floodwater has reportedly entered Asika hospital, forcing authorities to shift patients from the ground floor to upper levels for safety.

Roads Submerged, Connectivity Severely Hit

Flooding has also disrupted road connectivity across several parts of the district. National Highway 59 has reportedly been submerged under nearly eight feet of water, affecting movement between Asika and important destinations, including Berhampur, Sorada, Daringbadi and Bhanjanagar.

Several localities, including Palli Raghunath Nagar, Khambeswari Patana and Laxmi Bazaar, have also been inundated.

Dharakote block has reportedly been cut off from the outside world due to flooding, while the main market area of Sheragada is said to be submerged under nearly eight feet of water.

The disruption has raised concerns over the movement of essential supplies, access to healthcare and the safety of residents in the affected areas.

Faith Amid Fear and Uncertainty

For the people of Brahmanachhai, the prayers along the riverbank reflect more than religious devotion. They reveal the desperation of families watching floodwaters threaten their homes, belongings and livelihoods.

While some villagers continue to seek divine intervention, many are also hoping for timely administrative assistance as the situation remains uncertain.

The unfolding crisis highlights the vulnerability of riverside settlements during extreme weather events and the need for effective flood preparedness.

Rescue and Relief Efforts Remain Crucial

With several areas facing severe inundation and road links disrupted, ensuring the safety of affected residents remains the immediate priority.

Timely rescue operations, adequate relief materials, medical assistance and arrangements for safe evacuation are essential to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.

As the Rushikulya continues to swell, the prayers of Brahmanachhai’s residents capture the human cost of the unfolding disaster. For these families, the immediate hope is simple: that the waters recede before their homes and livelihoods are lost.