Bhubaneswar: Odisha government today sought central assistance to strengthen the infrastructure for a long-term solution to natural disasters especially tropical cyclones during a review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi here over damages caused by Cyclone ‘Yaas’ that battered north Odisha two days ago.
During the review meeting, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik put forth the State’s demands of long-term arrangements to face cyclones, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) PK Jena said.
“The CM demanded disaster-resilient power system and coastal storm surge protection for uninterrupted power supply even during natural disasters and safety of coasts respectively,” Jena informed.
The Chief Minister also informed regarding State's demands through tweets.
Thank you Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji for visiting #Odisha in the aftermath of #CycloneYaas. Apprised him about the large scale devastation caused by the cyclone and steps taken by the State Govt ahead of the cyclone and the ongoing restoration efforts. #OdishaFightsYaas pic.twitter.com/RG1dQpLcp0
The disaster resilience power system can be achieved through underground cabling with modern technology for electricity supply which can well withstand the cyclone and other natural disasters.
Modern infrastructure for long-term coastal security has been demanded in view of 7-8 metres high tides which affect the coastal areas during cyclone, Jena said.
“We sought assistance from the government of India on these two major demands,” he added.
No immediate financial demand has been made over loss caused by the recent cyclone. “We will manage with the State resources whatever required now. We promised to submit the damage assessment reports within seven days,” Jena said.
The SRC said a power-point presentation along with an 8-minute video on the damages caused by the cyclone in Bhadrak and Balasore districts was shown to the PM.
After chairing the review meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake an aerial survey in the cyclone-ravaged Balasore and Bhadrak districts today.
Union Minister Pratap Sarangi, who attended the review meeting, said PM Modi would announce relief package for the State by the evening.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also participated in the meeting. Pradhan later stated through tweets that Centre will continue to support Odisha in mitigating the impact of Cyclone.