LSN News › India

World · India Bureau

Search intensifies for a dozen missing in Odisha landslide disaster

A major rescue operation is underway in southern Odisha after a landslide struck a village, leaving 12 people unaccounted for. Nearly 170 personnel from multiple disaster response agencies have been mobilized to locate the missing residents.

LSN India · 31 October 2026

Search intensifies for a dozen missing in Odisha landslide disaster

Rescue teams have launched an extensive search operation in a southern Odisha village following a devastating landslide that has left a dozen residents missing. The operation, coordinated by state authorities, represents one of the region's ongoing efforts to respond to natural disasters that frequently impact the state during monsoon seasons.

According to the Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh P. Patil, a combined force of 170 personnel has been deployed to conduct the search and rescue efforts. The contingent comprises members of the National Disaster Response Force, the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force, and the Special Operation Group, all working in tandem to locate the missing villagers.

The deployment of such substantial resources underscores the scale of the operation and the urgency with which authorities are treating the situation. Rescue personnel have been conducting systematic searches of the affected area, with teams using specialized equipment and trained personnel experienced in disaster response operations.

State disaster management officials have not yet released details regarding the exact cause of the landslide or the circumstances surrounding the disappearances. The operation continues as rescue teams work to navigate the challenging terrain created by the geological event.