A major incident occurred in Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh, when the Lutia Dam, dating back about 40 years, breached due to intense rainfall on Tuesday night. The dam’s failure led to the destruction of three homes situated downstream. Eight people, who were in their homes, and more than 30 cattle were swept away by the floodwaters. Two bodies were recovered the same night, with the discovery of two more bodies on Wednesday morning.
The NDRF team is actively involved in rescue operations, searching for the remaining missing individuals. The village is now marked by sorrow following this tragedy. The Lutia Dam was at full capacity. Around 10 p.m. on Tuesday, the dam gave way, causing widespread destruction in the nearby areas, with three houses being completely washed away.
The injured are receiving medical attention at the district hospital. Concerns are high regarding the fate of over 30 cows, bulls, and livestock that were also carried away. The strong currents claimed eight people, resulting in four fatalities. Four individuals remain unaccounted for. Medical care is being provided to the injured at the district hospital. Local residents reported substantial water leakage from the dam for the past three to four years. The area is surrounded by forests and mountains.
Residents shared that the dam remained full during the rainy season. They had previously submitted multiple requests to the water resources department to repair the dam, but no action was taken. Villagers claim the dam was built in 1976-77, but its construction did not adhere to proper quality standards, leading to this disaster.
The district collector and SP arrived at the scene immediately to assess the situation after receiving news of the dam’s collapse. The NDRF team was deployed promptly, and rescue efforts commenced. Arrangements for relief supplies, food, and shelter were swiftly made for the families affected. The district administration is currently on-site, working alongside the rescue teams.
Families affected by the incident have expressed that the district administration only arranged for accommodation in a panchayat भवन (building). The SDM responded by confirming that arrangements for shelter and meals had been made for the affected families. The district administration is assessing the loss of livestock, with relief measures expected to be implemented quickly. The administration continues to provide assistance.