Odisha to enhance hi-tech based disaster management capacity

Bhubaneswar, Oct 14: With International accolades in disaster management, State Government have started the move to climb new height in disaster management with hi-tech equipments, training and capacity building. This was decided in the State Executive Committee meeting held on digital mode under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy from Lokseba Bhawan wherein Additional Chief Secretary and Special Relief Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Jena outlined the technical, financial and administrative contours for discussion.  Considering the intensity and frequency of natural disasters along with the need for preparedness to face industrial disasters, Chief Secretary Tripathy directed to strengthen the disaster fighting arms of the State with hi-tech equipments and innovative training. An additional amount of around Rs. 55.22 cr was sanctioned in the meeting taking total sanction to around Rs.205 cr for the current year.   While approving the proposals, Chief Secretary Tripathy emphasized on proper maintenance and upkeep of the equipments through regular institutional arrangements.  Further, the Chief Secretary complimented the ODRAF and Fire Service Units of Odisha for consistently maintaining a higher standard of service in neighbouring states. He also directed to extend contours of Fire Service wing beyond traditional fire fighting and build them up as ‘First Multi-hazard Responders’.  Additional Chief Secretary Jena said, “At present, the Odisha Fire Service is equipped to respond to natural disasters in the State and extend helping hands to other States. The new training and equipments would further sharpen their teeth to deal with different types of disasters”.  Available data show that a total amount of Rs.205.21 cr has been sanctioned for hi-tech equipments and capacity building activities during the current financial year of 2020-21. The meeting also reviewed the progress regarding the repair and maintenance of multi-purpose cyclone/flood centers (MCS/MFS) operating at different places. Review showed that so far physical audit of 814 shelters operating in 25 districts was completed. Out of this, the repair and maintenance of 795 shelters in 23 districts with investment of Rs.45 crore was completed.