Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik recently chaired a State-Level Natural Calamity Committee meeting to review disaster preparedness. With Odisha being prone to multiple and recurring disasters, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state is more prone to floods and cyclones. Last year, 24 districts were affected by floods and heavy rain, but the state managed it successfully and was awarded the Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Award for the year 2023 by the Indian government.
The meeting saw officials discuss the state’s preparedness to tackle disasters. CM Patnaik stressed the importance of reviewing preparedness at all levels to tackle possible floods and cyclones. The officials have been instructed to focus on adequate measures regarding early warning systems, rescue and relief operations, supply of drinking water, and health and veterinary services.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the important role of ORDAF units and Fire Services in remaining alert for immediate response at any time. Control Rooms in Districts and Departments will be functional around the clock, and a web and mobile app called SATARK has been developed to disseminate real-time weather and disaster-related updates. CM Patnaik asserted that this should be a single-window platform to communicate location-based information on all disasters to citizens to save precious human lives.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the importance of vulnerable people like pregnant women, physically and mentally challenged citizens, young children, widows, and the elderly during rescue and relief operations. The Collectors have been instructed to give them special attention.
Finally, CM Patnaik requested immediate clearance of relief lines, repair and restoration of lifeline infrastructure, and restoration of livelihoods in the aftermath of disasters. Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department will store sufficient food materials, and Fisheries and ARD Department will store adequate cattle feed in vulnerable and inaccessible areas. Provision for green fodder and opening of cattle camps during floods must be ensured.
In conclusion, the State-Level Natural Calamity Committee meeting has taken stock of the state’s readiness to handle natural calamities and have come up with strategies to mitigate their effects. Efforts have been made to ensure preparedness at all levels and save human lives during natural disasters.
