Search underway for 12 people missing in landslide-hit southern Odisha village

A landslide in a remote village of southern Odisha has left twelve residents unaccounted for, prompting an intensive search operation that began early this week. The slide, triggered by heavy monsoon rains, buried homes and blocked access roads, making it difficult for emergency services to reach the affected area. Local authorities have issued an appeal for families to remain calm while the rescue effort continues, and they have set up temporary shelters for those displaced by the disaster.

Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh P. Patil announced that a combined force of 170 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and the state's Special Operation Group is now on the ground. These teams are equipped with heavy‑duty excavators, sonar equipment and trained dogs to locate survivors trapped under debris. The coordinated effort reflects lessons learned from previous incidents in the state, where swift mobilisation of multi‑agency resources has saved lives. Officials have also deployed medical teams to treat injuries and provide basic health services to the affected families.

Odisha is one of India's most disaster‑prone regions, with its hilly terrain and intense seasonal rainfall creating a high risk of landslides and floods each year. Over the past decade, the state has experienced several similar events that have caused loss of life and property. The current operation underscores the importance of early warning systems, community preparedness and robust infrastructure to mitigate future risks. For residents of Odisha and neighboring states, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued investment in disaster management and relief capabilities.