Odisha to conduct a comprehensive review of disaster preparedness: CM Majhi
Bhubaneswar, June 26 (UNI) Odisha government will conduct a comprehensive review of its disaster preparedness to effectively deal with cyclones and floods, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said.
Chairing the State-Level Natural Disaster Committee meeting last night, Majhi emphasized the need for timely measures in early warning systems, relief and rescue operations, drinking water supply, healthcare, and respiratory care.
He directed that ODRAF, NDRF, and Fire Services remain on high alert to ensure prompt response and achieve the state's target of zero casualty during disasters.
Stating that Odisha is highly prone to natural disasters, especially cyclones and unseasonal rainfall, the Chief Minister noted that the Bay of Bengal is the most cyclone-prone sea in the world, with many cyclones making landfall in or around Odisha.
"While natural disasters cannot be prevented, their impact can certainly be minimized," Majhi said. He added that the state aims to irrigate 1.5 million hectares of farmland over the next five years to significantly reduce drought vulnerability.
Referring to Cyclone Dana which had affected 14 districts, Majhi said the government had effectively managed the situation and achieved zero casualty.
Similarly, unseasonal rains were declared a state disaster, and affected farmers were provided assistance to recover their losses.
The Chief Minister also said the state successfully tackled this year's heatwave, with only one death reported in Balangir district, where immediate relief was provided.
He highlighted that health issues and snakebites pose major challenges during the monsoon, and instructed officials to maintain adequate stocks of medicines and anti-snake venom at health centres.
Majhi reiterated that there would be no compromise on the zero-casualty goal—for both humans and domestic animals.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said two Doppler radars will be installed in Sambalpur and Balasore, and another in Bhubaneswar to improve weather forecasting.
A 24-hour emergency control room has been activated at both the state and district levels to receive real-time weather updates and coordinate emergency responses.
Pujari also informed that sufficient palm trees have been planted, with support from the Forest Department, to help mitigate the effects of lightning.
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