Bhubaneswar, June 26: The Odisha government has announced plans to install advanced weather radars at three locations to enhance real-time monitoring of weather conditions, informed Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Thursday.
This decision was made during a state-level Natural Disaster Committee meeting held on Wednesday evening, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The Minister stated that given Odisha’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as cyclones, there is a pressing need for modern equipment and skilled personnel to strengthen the state’s disaster preparedness.
“To improve the accuracy of weather forecasts, two Doppler radars will be installed in Sambalpur and Balasore. Additionally, a modern radar system will be set up in Bhubaneswar,” Pujari said.
He also noted that 24-hour emergency control rooms have been made operational across all districts to monitor weather developments continuously.
“These control rooms serve as our nerve centers during emergencies, enabling quick decision-making and timely dissemination of warnings to the public,” he added.
Addressing the high incidence of lightning-related fatalities in the state, Pujari highlighted the government's initiative to plant palm trees in collaboration with the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department. “Palm trees act as natural lightning conductors and help reduce casualties,” he explained.
To further bolster disaster resilience, the state is developing infrastructure that can withstand floods and cyclones. Currently, Odisha has 909 multi-purpose cyclone and flood shelters across 25 of its 30 districts, providing temporary refuge to affected communities during emergencies.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the importance of robust disaster preparedness and coordination among departments. “Natural disasters are inevitable, especially during the monsoon season from June to October. However, their impact can be significantly reduced with strong planning and cooperation,” he said.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting human and livestock lives and expressed gratitude to officials and stakeholders for effectively managing a cyclone and flood earlier in 2024.
The Chief Minister also announced that unseasonal rains and heatwaves have been officially recognized as state-specific disasters. Farmers affected by these events are eligible for compensation under the state's relief code. He noted that one person died due to sunstroke this year.
