Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): The flood situation in Odisha continued to remain grim on Wednesday, with four people losing their lives and more than 2.03 lakh residents affected across six districts, according to the latest flood status report released by the Special Relief Commissioner’s (SRC) office. SRC Rajesh Prabhakar Patil said that as of 9 am, floodwaters had impacted 2,03,208 people spread across 748 villages,…
Firefighter Dies of Electrocution During Flood Relief Operation in Kendujhar; CM Majhi Mourns Loss
Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): A firefighter lost his life after being electrocuted while carrying out flood relief operations in Odisha’s Kendujhar district on Wednesday, in a tragic reminder of the risks faced by emergency responders during the ongoing monsoon crisis. The deceased has been identified as Chandan Pattnaik, a personnel of the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services, who was deployed to assist residents affected by heavy…
Heavy Rain Disrupts Odisha Life as Seven Districts Close Schools and Colleges
Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): Several parts of Odisha are facing disruption due to heavy rainfall and rising flood concerns, prompting authorities to temporarily close schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres across seven districts as a safety measure. Educational institutions in Bhadrak, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, and Deogarh will remain closed as continuous rainfall has caused river water levels to rise and increased the risk of…
Deep Depression Drifts into Chhattisgarh, Heavy Rain to Continue Over Parts of Odisha: IMD
Bhubaneswar, July 29 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday said the deep depression that triggered widespread rainfall and flood-like conditions across Odisha has moved further westwards and is now centred over central Chhattisgarh and adjoining north interior Odisha. Representational Image According to the IMD’s 8:30 am weather bulletin, the system has travelled westward at a speed of around 15 kmph during the past…
Flood Threat Rises in Keonjhar, 50 Families Moved
Keonjhar, July 29 (UDN): A flood alert has been issued in parts of Odisha’s Keonjhar district after a 30-foot breach developed in the Anandpur ring embankment following a rise in the water level of the Baitarani River. The breach, which occurred late Tuesday night, triggered concerns among residents living in nearby low-lying areas and prompted authorities to evacuate more than 50 families as a precautionary…
India Hockey Team Ready for Asian Games Challenge Under Harmanpreet’s Leadership
New Delhi, July 29: Hockey India has announced a 20-member squad for the upcoming Asian Games, with captain Harmanpreet Singh set to lead the team as India aims for another strong showing on the continental stage. The squad features a balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talent, reflecting India’s focus on maintaining consistency and building a competitive unit for one of the biggest sporting…
Bhitarkanika National Park to Reopen for Tourists from August 1 After Annual Crocodile Breeding Closure
Rajnagar, July 29 (UDN): After remaining off-limits to visitors for three months to facilitate the breeding of endangered saltwater crocodiles, Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapada district will reopen for tourists from August 1, the Forest Department announced on Wednesday. Representational Image Confirming the development, Rajnagar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Bhardraj Gaonkar said tourists will once again be allowed to enter the national park and…
India’s Africa Partnership Deepens as Investments Reach Dollar 75 Billion Milestone
New Delhi, July 29: India’s growing economic engagement with Africa has reached a significant milestone, with the country’s cumulative investments in the continent rising to nearly $75 billion, reflecting stronger business ties and long-term cooperation between the two regions. According to a recent report, Indian companies have expanded their presence across key sectors in Africa, including energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, agriculture, and manufacturing. These investments…
Banking Charges Put the Spotlight on Customer Costs as Fees Cross INR 26,000 Crore
New Delhi, July 29: Banks collected ₹26,170 crore in minimum balance charges between FY23 and FY26, according to government data, highlighting the growing conversation around account-related fees and their impact on customers. The charges were collected from account holders who were unable to maintain the minimum balance requirements specified by their banks. While banks consider these fees an important part of covering account management and…
West Asia Tensions Pose Fresh Challenges for Indian Trade, Exporters Face Rising Costs
Mumbai, July 29: Escalating tensions in West Asia and potential disruptions at critical global shipping routes could increase costs for Indian exporters and importers, affecting freight rates, marine insurance premiums, and supply chain operations, according to a report by CareEdge Ratings. The report highlighted that prolonged uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea could pose significant challenges for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized…