Ganjam, Nov 10 (UDN): The Ganjam district administration has suspended search and rescue operations at landslide-ravaged Gidipabali village following written appeals from the families of those still missing. Six people remain untraced, even as five bodies have been recovered since the disaster struck on October 28.
The landslide had left 11 people missing after tonnes of mud, rocks and debris buried several houses in the village. Despite days of rescue efforts, authorities could recover only five bodies.
According to sources, the families of the six missing persons submitted written applications to the district administration, requesting that the search operation be stopped. They pointed out that their relatives and homes were buried beneath nearly 30 feet of debris and massive boulders, leaving little possibility of recovery.
The families have urged the administration to shift its focus towards rehabilitation and long-term assistance. They said living in temporary shelters for an extended period was not a viable option and sought land for relocation along with support to rebuild their lives.
Cyclone-triggered landslide devastated village
The tragedy occurred around 3 am on October 28 at Gidipabali village under Baibali panchayat in Bhanjanagar block, near the Ganjam-Kandhamal border.
Heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Arnab triggered a massive landslide, sending mud, boulders, uprooted trees and torrents of water down the hillside. Several houses were buried while residents were asleep.
Rescue efforts hampered by difficult terrain
Around 100 personnel were deployed for the search and rescue operation. However, the scale of destruction and challenging terrain severely hampered the efforts.
Enormous boulders, some reportedly as large as houses, along with poor road connectivity, prevented heavy machinery from reaching the affected site. Rescue teams continued their efforts for several days but managed to retrieve only five bodies.
With the search operation now suspended, the immediate concern for the affected families has shifted to rehabilitation, relocation and livelihood support. They are awaiting concrete assistance from the government to rebuild their lives after the devastating landslide.