Archive · 27 Sep 2026
Bastar Floods Cut Highways, Prompt IAF Airlift of 16
Heavy rain caused serious flooding in Bastar.
The Indravati River rose far above its danger level.
Highways, districts and villages were cut off by the water.
Sixteen people were rescued by the Indian Air Force.
At least one person died by drowning.
The rain was linked to cyclonic storm Arnab.
Water was also released when gates at two dams in Odisha were opened.
The river has started to go down, giving people some relief.
Severe flooding in Bastar cut off highways, districts and several villages.
The Indian Air Force airlifted 16 people to safety.
At least one person died by drowning, according to a senior official.
Heavy rain from September 23 to 26 followed cyclonic storm Arnab’s influence.
The Indravati River reached 12.39 metres after rain and dam-gate openings, then began receding.
- Who
- Residents and affected people in Bastar; the Indian Air Force airlifted 16 people, and a senior official reported one drowning death.
- What
- Severe flooding cut off highways, districts and villages, prompting an airlift rescue.
- When
- Heavy rain occurred from September 23 to 26; the river peaked around 6 a.m. on Sunday and later began receding.
- Where
- Bastar region and the Indravati River in Chhattisgarh, with dam-gate openings in neighbouring Odisha contributing to the flooding.
- Why
- Heavy rain associated with cyclonic storm Arnab and the opening of gates at the Khatiguda and Muran dams caused the river to rise.
- People airlifted
- 16
- Reported death toll
- At least one person died by drowning.
- Rainfall period
- September 23-26
- River
- Indravati River
- Danger mark
- 8.3 metres
- Peak water level
- 12.39 metres
- Rescue agency
- Indian Air Force