Disaster management committee meet: Remain prepared, CM directs officials

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday directed the authorities to strengthen preparations in view of possibilities of natural calamities in the coming months in the State.

Citing that there is a high frequency of natural calamities between June and October, Patnaik said there is a need to strengthen preparations. Special attention should be given to pregnant women, physically and mentally challenged people, kids, widows and the elderly, directed Patnaik while chairing a state-level meeting of disaster management committee.

The meeting was held virtually today and was attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Pramilla Mallick, other MLAs and officials.

Reiterating that 'every life is precious', Patnaik asked the state admin to be prepared for all possible disasters. The Chief Minister also directed the officials to ensure that all emergency response systems, drinking water systems, health and animal care systems are well prepared and maintained.

Congress MLA Narasingha Mishra urged the State government to chalk out a plan after holding detailed consultations with experts and technicians on climate change and its impact on Odisha.

At present, there are 879 cyclone shelters and already the work is on for another 55 cyclone shelters in the State. Efforts are also on for the construction of disaster resilient houses in coastal districts.