Odishatv Bureau

Bhubaneswar: Information on lightning will soon be available on smartphones to help people move to safer places and save their lives. The Odisha government is planning to develop a mobile app that can alert users if they are in a lightning zone.

Speaking to mediapersons here on Wednesday, Special Relief Commissioner Bishnupada Sethi stated, "Users of the app will receive alert at least one hour before lightning strikes in that particular area, thus helping them move to safer places."

In fact the Odisha government has decided to collaborate with the US-based Earth Network to install lightning detection system in the State. A meeting in this regard was recently held under chairmanship of Chief Secretary AP Padhi, informed the SRC.

Users not having smartphones or internet facilities can get the info through SMSs, he said.

“A total of 61 people have lost their lives due to lightning between April and May 22 this year, "he said adding that 459 had died in Odisha during 2017-18.One can call up State Control room - 1070 and District Control room - 1077 to get help, the SRC mentioned.

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