India, Aug. 17 -- The Odisha Government on Sunday sounded a high alert across the state after the IMD forecast extremely heavy rainfall in some areas following the formation of a fresh low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal. The state has evacuated over 2.37 lakh people to safety as heavy rain continued for the second day, adding to the plight of people in flood-hit northern districts, an official said. Chief Secretary Anu Garg, who reviewed the situation following the IMD forecast, said the leaves of all Government employees had been cancelled and those on leave were asked to report for duty immediately.

"We have asked the district collectors to remain on high alert as the IMD forecast very heavy rain for three days from August 16 to ...