Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has proposed setting up of an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation and Recovery in Odisha.
Speaking to the officials of the United Nations, World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and other international organisations led by the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, at a meeting at the State Secretariat on Wednesday, he said as the UN system plays an important role in developing global public good, the United Nations University may consider setting up an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation & Recovery at Bhubaneswar. This could help in building upon the expertise that Odisha has gained in this sector as well as in developing international best practices for use across the world.
The Chief Minister also assured the UN team to provide all possible support for the establishment of this centre in the Odisha capital.
Stressing disaster-proofing of energy infrastructure, development of resilient communication network and restoration of livelihoods, Naveen urged the UN team to modify the existing programmes to incorporate some of these activities for early implementation in Odisha.
Appreciating the efforts of the state government in the pre-cyclone evacuation, the UN team said the timely effort saved the lives of many people. The team also had words of praise for the post-cyclone relief and restoration and assured full cooperation to the state government.
