The flood situation in Odisha continues to be grim with thousands of marooned people waiting for relief even after five days. Though major rivers like have started receding, Brahmani river is flowing above the danger level. Large tracts of areas in are still marooned. Road communication to many areas in Keonjhar, Jajpur, Balasore, Bhadrak and Kendrapada have been cut off . At least, 17 people have so far lost their lives in the second phase of flood in Odisha that affected more than 22 lakh people in 10 of the 30 district in the state.The Defence Minister, Mr. A.K. Antony on Sunday directed the Indian Air Force to step up deployment of their assets in the flood affected areas of Odisha following the State Government's request for increased assistance to mount relief and rescue operations. Seven MI-17 choppers, one Sea King of the Navy and one Cheetah have been detailed for deployment.