A significant incident occurred in Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh, as the Lutia Dam, constructed approximately 40 years ago, collapsed on Tuesday night due to intense rainfall. The dam’s failure resulted in the complete destruction of three houses located downstream. Sadly, eight individuals, who were residing in their homes, and more than 30 cattle were swept away by the floodwaters. Two bodies were recovered that night, with an additional two bodies found on Wednesday morning.
Currently, the NDRF team is undertaking comprehensive rescue operations to locate the remaining missing persons. The local community is now mourning the loss following this tragic event. The Lutia Dam was filled to capacity with water. The dam breached its structure at approximately 10 p.m. on Tuesday, causing significant devastation in the surrounding areas, including the complete washing away of three houses.
Injured individuals are receiving medical treatment at the district hospital. There are also concerns regarding the fate of over 30 cows, bulls, and livestock that were carried away by the flood. Eight people were swept away by the strong current, with four confirmed fatalities. Four individuals remain unaccounted for. The injured are receiving treatment at the district hospital. Locals have reported significant water leakage from the dam over the past three to four years. The area is surrounded by forests and hills.
Villagers reported that the dam remained filled with water during the monsoon season. Numerous applications were submitted to the water resources department requesting repairs, but no action was taken. The villagers claim the dam was built in 1976-77 without proper quality control, contributing to this catastrophic event.
The district collector and SP immediately visited the site upon receiving news of the dam’s collapse to assess the situation. The NDRF team was promptly deployed, and rescue operations were immediately commenced. Relief supplies, food, and accommodation were arranged swiftly for the affected families. The district administration is currently on-site, working alongside the rescue teams.
Families affected by the incident have expressed that the district administration has only provided accommodation in a panchayat भवन (building). The SDM stated that provisions for shelter and meals were made for the affected families. The district administration is assessing the loss of livestock, with relief measures expected shortly. The administration is fully engaged in providing assistance.