Flash floods have struck Gandahati waterfall in Odisha’s Gajapati district in the wake of heavy rainfall associated with cyclone Arnab and tourists are being prohibited from visiting the popular natural places.
The measure is taken in view of the unpredictable water situation and rising water levels in rivers and streams in the district.
The fast increase in the water flow has led to very dangerous conditions around the waterfall and it is now unsafe for tourists to visit it.
Touristy access has been restricted to avoid any accidents as rainfall keeps hitting the area. In a torrent, waterfalls and streams can quickly change flow, so visitors are susceptible to sudden surges of water.
Gandahati waterfall is among the nature attractions in Gajapati district and attracts tourists interested in its peacefulness. But the latest developments have raised safety worries and public safety officials are now focusing on the safety of the public until conditions improve.
Cyclone Arnab impact Visuals from Gandahati waterfall, Gajapati. https://t.co/yzfSYQWi2L
— Odisha Weatherman (@OdishaWeather7) October 29, 2026ALSO READ
Heavy rainfall has also affected the Lingadhar Shiva Temple in Randiba Gram Panchayat under the R. Udayagiri block. On the temple premises, the torrential rain and heavy downpour in the area are also causing water to flow into the temple and the temple is still overflowing, as per information.
These incidents illustrate the extent to which the rainfall is having a major impact on the district and in particular on the district’s religious sites and other areas far from tourist places.
Several rivers and streams in Gajapati district have also had rising water levels after continuous rainfall. That water in local waterways has led to the possibility of floods in low-lying areas.
The tourist ban at Gandahati Waterfall is an exercise of prudence as the area is under heavy rains. Visitors should be careful to avoid going into swollen waters and waterfalls and follow the local road rules.
People living along rivers, streams, and other water bodies need to be aware of sudden changes in water levels. When it rains, places that appear to be safe can quickly become unsafe.
The situation in Gajapati shows the dangers of heavy rainfall in areas with waterfalls and inflow from rivers. The rising water levels, the condition at Lingadhar Shiva Temple, and more inflow into the Vansadhara River have raised concerns in the district.
More will be in the way as rainfall and water levels change. Residents and visitors should be kept safe from intrusion into restricted areas and follow the advice of the government as long as the weather does not improve and more rain and water levels are flowing.
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