Bhubaneswar: Utkal University in Bhubaneswar has postponed the fourth-semester examinations of several undergraduate and BEd programmes scheduled to begin on Monday, August 17, citing the prevailing flood situation and difficulties caused by waterlogging across several parts of Odisha.
The university announced that the fourth-semester examinations for UG (+3), BSc ITM, BSc Computer Science and BEd (UDTE) have been deferred until further notice. The decision applies to all degree colleges affiliated with Utkal University, including self-financing institutions.
According to the university notification, a fresh examination schedule will be issued later. Students have been advised to regularly check official communications from Utkal University and their respective colleges for updates regarding the revised examination dates.
Flood Situation Forces Examination Postponement
The decision comes at a time when several districts of Odisha are witnessing severe flooding following heavy rainfall and the influence of a depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas.
Flooding and waterlogging have disrupted road connectivity in several regions, making transportation difficult for students, teaching staff and examination personnel. Holding examinations under such circumstances could have created additional difficulties for students travelling to examination centres.
The postponement is therefore aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of students while allowing authorities to focus on ongoing flood management and relief operations.
Major Rivers Continue To Swell
The flood situation has remained concerning in several northern Odisha districts, with major rivers and their tributaries flowing at high levels.
The Baitarani, Brahmani, Salandi, Jalaka and Budhabalanga rivers have been in spate, inundating low-lying areas, villages, roads and agricultural land in different parts of the state.
Districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar have been among the worst affected by the flooding. Thousands of residents have been impacted as floodwater continues to affect normal life and connectivity.
Over 5 Lakh People Affected
According to the latest available reports, more than 5.15 lakh people across 947 villages, 331 gram panchayats, 49 blocks and five urban areas have been affected by the floods.
Authorities have also evacuated more than 2.37 lakh people to around 293 relief camps as rescue, evacuation and relief operations continue across the affected regions.
With several areas still facing waterlogging and rising river levels, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The postponement of the Utkal University examinations provides students with additional time until normal conditions improve and a fresh examination schedule is announced.
Students appearing for the postponed examinations should rely only on official university and college notifications for information about the new exam dates, examination centres and revised schedule.
