Odisha CM Stresses On Building Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday laid emphasis on disaster-resilient infrastructure in the state to reduce the risk of large scale damage due to natural calamities in future.

“The recent disasters demonstrate the need for integrating the principle of resilience in every area of development planning and recovery process to achieve a substantial reduction in economic losses. In the coming years, the disaster management efforts of the state will be to build resilience at all levels with focus on disaster-resilient public infrastructure, housing and services for all and resilient livelihood and sustainable environment practices to reduce the risk of future disasters,” the Chief Minister said at an even to commemorate Odisha Disaster Preparedness Day and National Day of Disaster Reduction at Jayadev Bhawan here.

The CM said Odisha had faced the extremely severe cyclonic storm Fani on May 3 that affected the life and property of more than 1.65 crore people in 14 districts and appreciated the people’s determination and solidarity to build a disaster-resilient state.

He said Odisha has already set a global benchmark in handling disasters as it is fully prepared to face all possible eventualities.

“The successful management, robust rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures during Cyclone Fani by public officials, volunteers and civil-society organisations deserve sincere appreciation. I take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the brave jawans of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), Odisha Fire Service, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Odisha Police for their outstanding work,” he added.

Praising Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) for its pivotal role in enhancing the state’s capabilities for managing disasters, he said the efforts of OSDMA in its two decades of existence are commendable and appreciated by the policy makers and scholars worldwide.

The CM also felicitated the director of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Dr Mrutyunjay Mahapatra. He also felicitated institutions, NGOs and individuals in recognition of their commendable work during the disaster.

Among others, chief secretary Asit Tripathy and Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradip Jena also spoke on the occasion.

The event was presided over by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Sudam Marandi.