Bhadrak, July 30 -- Around 61 Gram Panchayats covering 261 villages and a population of nearly 2.45 lakh have been affected by the flood situation in Odisha's Bhadrak district, Collector Dillip Rautrai said.

Speaking to ANI, the Collector said several villages have been marooned, and many panchayats have been cut off, particularly in the Bhandaripokhari and Dhamnagar blocks.

He said free kitchens have been opened at 51 centres to provide food to the affected people.

"On 29th of July, by 12 noon, we have assessed that about 61 Gram Panchayats covering about 261 villages and comprising a population of about 2,45,000 have been affected. And, uh, many of the villages have been marooned, many of the panchayats have been cut off, especially ...