Raipur, September 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Cyclone Arnab has triggered three days of heavy rainfall across Chhattisgarh, disrupting normal life in several divisions and raising the risk of flooding in multiple districts. Rivers and streams have swollen, while waterlogging and damaged connectivity have affected several routes.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has ordered all government, private and aided schools across the state to remain closed on Saturday, September 26, citing the heavy rainfall and concerns over waterlogging, rising river levels and difficulties in commuting.
Sai urged parents to keep children at home, remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel. District Collectors and concerned departments have been directed to remain on alert and prepare for relief and rescue operations.
In Mahasamund district, continuous rainfall and releases from the Gangrel Dam have sharply raised the Mahanadi’s water level. Rivers and streams have overflowed, while an alert has been issued for 18 villages located along riverbanks.
The Bastar division and adjoining districts have been among the worst affected, with several rivers and streams overflowing and major roads submerged, disrupting inter-district connectivity.
All 14 gates of the Gangrel Dam in Dhamtari have been opened after the reservoir reached more than 98 per cent capacity. Around 50,000 cusecs of water is being released into the Mahanadi through the Rudri Barrage.
The Murumsilli Dam is at 100 per cent capacity, while the Dudhawa and Sondhur dams have crossed 90 per cent. The Hatkul River near Dhamtari has also overflowed, cutting off several surrounding villages.
In Bamhani village of Mahasamund, floodwaters surrounded a government liquor shop, trapping two security guards, Chhagan Lal Kurre and Eid Kumar Tandan. The two later confirmed through a video that they were safe and were subsequently rescued by a team.
Water released from dams in Chhattisgarh and neighbouring Odisha has also raised the level of the Indravati River. Hundreds of villages in Sukma, Kanker, Bijapur, Jagdalpur, Narayanpur and Dantewada face a potential flood threat.
District administrations have kept rescue teams on standby and identified safe locations in riverside villages for possible evacuation. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as the weather system weakens.
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