Severe Kalbaisakhi thunderstorms caused extensive damage in Bonai of Sundargarh district in Odisha on Wednesday night, disrupting electricity, drinking water supply and road connectivity across several areas.

The storm, accompanied by intense winds, swept through Bonai town and nearby localities on Wednesday afternoon and continued for nearly two hours, leaving behind widespread destruction and affecting normal life in the region.

Electricity Infrastructure Suffers Extensive Damage

Strong winds damaged more than five electricity transformers, while hundreds of electric poles were uprooted across the affected areas. Following the damage to power infrastructure, several localities remained without electricity supply.

Drinking water supply was also completely disrupted as water distribution systems dependent on electricity were affected.

Large trees reportedly collapsed on motorcycles, cars and JCB machines at several locations. In front of the Bonai Sub-Collector’s residence, a tree fell across the main road, completely blocking vehicular movement.

Restoration and clearance work continued in multiple affected areas on Thursday.

Residents Describe Widespread Destruction

Local residents said the intensity of the storm caused heavy damage to houses and public infrastructure.

“The winds were extremely strong and caused extensive damage. Roofs of kutcha houses were blown away, while electric poles, trees and transformers were badly damaged. We have had no electricity or water supply since around 3 am on Wednesday night. However, teams from the Fire Services and Electricity Department have been working since night. Trees are being cleared, though movement is still affected,” a local resident said.

Administration Continues Restoration Work

Bonai Sub-Collector Ashok Das said officials had been engaged in emergency response and restoration activities since Wednesday night.

“I held discussions with the Collector and the ADM regarding the situation. The ODRAF team will clear road blockages. However, restoration of electricity supply may take some time. Repair work has been continuing since last night,” Das said.

“My official residence, gate, boundary wall and several trees were also damaged in the storm. I had to move around on foot to supervise the clearance and restoration work,” he added.

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An ODRAF team from Jharsuguda had reached Bonai at the time of reporting to assist in relief, road clearance and emergency restoration operations.