Venezuela, July 6: Retired IAS Officer & former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik’s confidant VK Pandian on Monday visited Venjuela reportedly to take stock of the devastation here due to the hurricaning earthquakes.
VK Pandian after assessing the tremendous losses of lives and settlements, shared his disaster management expertise and firsthand experiences that he effectively practised in Odisha while managing the pre & post-cyclone situations in the state, with Venezuela President Delcy Rodríguez for prompt rehabilitation & resettlement in the earthquake-hit areas.
Pandian, during his visit in & around the earthquake-affected areas in the Venezuela city, assessed the rescue and recovery efforts, taken up by the Venezuela government. He interacted directly with the affected people and emergency response teams on the ground, with a manner of solidarity and wished the affected ones to yet withstand with vigor & patience to restand.
Pandian praised the Relief Teams at work, during his go-round with the victims waiting for humanitarian aid and assistance. Meanwhile, Pandian evaluated the ongoing operations and spoke with the survivors about their immediate needs and challenges, they do face. He also consulted frontline responders about their challenges and success stories, fighting in the difficult conditions.
Pandian appreciated the dedication and commitment of all personnel engaged in relief operations during this challenging time. Their tireless work impressed him deeply as they delivered aid efficiently despite the tough circumstances.
Pandian after a field visit called on Venezuela President Delcy Rodríguez and discussed the situations he faced during his interactions with the victims. The two leaders exchanged ideas on disaster response strategies. Pandian shared Odisha and Odisha’s proven experiences in disaster response, recovery, rehabilitation, and long-term disaster mitigation. He outlined practical measures that helped communities rebuild stronger after major calamities in coastal parts of Odisha.
Worth mentioning, VK Pandian while working as former CM Naveen Patnaik’s Private Secretary & 5T chief was proved instrumental in implementing strategic and coordinated approach in disaster management and effective disaster mitigation during the Cyclonic Systems including Fany, Hudhud and Amphan, that hit or often wreaked panic, looming over Odisha a few years ago.
