ODRAF rescues patient across swollen Mahanadi in Boudh
ODRAF rescue team saved a seriously ill patient by wading through two kilometres of flood‑swollen Mahanadi water at night in Boudh’s Harabhanga block.
On the night of July 31, 2026, ODRAF rescue personnel waded through approximately two kilometres of flood‑swollen Mahanadi river water in Boudh’s Harabhanga block to reach Panighara village, where they evacuated Nabati Behera, a resident who had fallen seriously ill after heavy rains inundated more than ten villages, and transported him to Athamallik Sub‑Divisional Hospital for treatment. The operation came after floodwaters submerged roads in more than ten villages, cutting off ground transport and prompting villagers to alert the ODRAF team.
According to the Ommcom News report, heavy rains caused the Mahanadi to swell, submerging roads in over ten villages of Harabhanga block and severely affecting normal life. Nabati Behera, a resident of Panighara village, fell seriously ill, and with no road access, his family could not transport him to a medical facility. Villagers notified the ODRAF team, which launched a night‑time rescue.
How did the ODRAF team reach the patient?
The Boudh ODRAF team waded through approximately two kilometres of flood water in the Mahanadi at night to reach Panighara. They rescued Nabati Behera from his home and transported him across the swollen river to Athamallik Sub‑Divisional Hospital for treatment.
Rescuers faced darkness and strong currents while navigating the swollen Mahanadi, underscoring the perilous nature of the operation.
What was the patient’s condition after rescue?
Officials stated that the timely intervention prevented any escalation in Nabati Behera’s medical condition. The report does not detail his specific diagnosis or treatment received at the hospital. Villagers and local residents have thanked the ODRAF personnel for their prompt and courageous action.
What measures are being taken for ongoing flood risks?
With several low‑lying areas still inundated, district authorities said ODRAF and Fire Services teams remain on alert in Boudh to respond to further emergencies. The report notes that more than ten villages in Harabhanga block continue to experience waterlogging, and roads remain submerged at multiple locations.
The team’s bravery in carrying out the rescue under dangerous flood conditions in the middle of the night has drawn widespread appreciation across the region.
The incident was reported by Ommcom News on July 31, 2026.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation today.
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Who was rescued in the ODRAF operation in Boudh?
Nabati Behera, a resident of Panighara village, was rescued.
Where did the rescue operation take place?
In Harabhanga block of Boudh district, specifically Panighara village, across the swollen Mahanadi river to Athamallik Sub-Divisional Hospital.
How did the ODRAF team reach the patient?
The team waded through approximately two kilometres of flood water in the Mahanadi at night to reach Panighara.
What was the condition of the patient after rescue?
Officials said the timely intervention prevented any escalation in Nabati Behera’s medical condition.
What actions are being taken due to ongoing flooding in Boudh?
ODRAF and Fire Services teams remain on alert in Boudh, with several low‑lying areas still inundated and more than ten villages waterlogged.
When did the rescue operation occur?
The rescue took place on the night of July 31, 2026.
Why were villagers unable to transport the patient to hospital?
Flood‑cut off roads prevented the family from taking Nabati Behera to a medical facility.
What appreciation did the rescue team receive?
The team’s bravery in conducting the rescue under dangerous flood conditions at night drew widespread appreciation across the region.
Tapan Kumar Sahoo
District Correspondent, Boudh
Tapan Kumar Sahoo reports on Boudh district's education sector, road and infrastructure projects, and community affairs.
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