In a proactive step to strengthen the state’s resilience against natural calamities, Revenue & Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari chaired a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan today.
The Minister firmly assured that there would be no financial or infrastructural constraints for disaster management, signalling the government’s commitment to a robust and responsive system.
Pujari emphasised the need to further enhance disaster management infrastructure across Odisha. A detailed review was conducted on expenditure under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), along with progress on projects funded by the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF) and National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF). The Minister directed all departments to accelerate implementation and ensure timely completion of these vital projects.
A key focus of the meeting was the construction of Multipurpose Flood & Cyclone Centres. The Minister instructed officials to identify suitable sites in various districts without delay, promote seamless inter-departmental coordination, and fast-track construction so these centres can serve as vital shelters and command hubs during emergencies.
Major Infrastructure Push
- Installation of the Doppler Weather Radar at Sambalpur is nearly complete and will be inaugurated shortly.
- Doppler Radars at Balasore, Bhubaneswar, and Puri are to be commissioned within the current year.
These advanced radars will significantly improve early warning capabilities for cyclones, heavy rainfall, and severe weather events
The meeting also assessed the state’s preparedness in view of the potential impact of El Niño. It was decided to maintain close coordination with the Water Resources Department for optimal utilisation of reservoirs, irrigation projects, and water storage facilities. Additionally, the Minister directed that Heat Wave Centres in vulnerable districts be completed and made fully operational before the next summer season.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee (Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management), Rajesh Prabhakar Patil (Special Relief Commissioner), Shubha Sarma (Principal Secretary, Water Resources), Yamini Sarangi (Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Rural Development), Dr. Manorama Mohanty (Director, IMD Bhubaneswar), Executive Directors of OSDMA, and other senior officers.
