Bhubaneswar: Odisha demanded two long-term solutions during the review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assess the impact of Cyclone Yaas in the state, at the airport conference hall here on Friday.
“We have asked for disaster resilient power infrastructure and steps for protection of coastal areas from storm surge and sea erosion,” said Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena.
He said that the tidal surge can go up to 7-8 metre and therefore, there is a need for robust planning to strengthen 400-450 km of the coastline.
“The state has demanded help for building disaster-resilient coastal infrastructure. The state will also chip in if required,” he said.
Odisha has not asked for immediate financial assistance in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, adding that the CM said that the government would like to manage the damage caused by the cyclone through its own resources.
“The damage assessment will be made in seven days and the Centre will be informed accordingly,” he added.
Between 1891 and 2021, over 100 tropical cyclones are known to have lashed Odisha — the highest number among other states on the coast. The state has faced six cyclones in the last 30 months and it has been able to contain the damage by a definitive margin due to its robust evacuation mechanism and preparedness.
“PM Modi said the Centre is with Odisha. The state demanded a permanent solution to the disaster. The PM is conducting an aerial survey of cyclone-affected areas. He will announce a relief package by this evening,” said Union Minister Pratap Sarangi, who attended the meeting along with Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
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