Odisha to build 800 new cyclone and flood shelters, Centre’s assistance sought

The Odisha government has proposed the construction of 800 new cyclone and flood shelters across the disaster-prone districts of the state. The information was provided by the Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari during an interaction with the press on Thursday.

In his address, Pujari said that a request has been placed before the Centre to sanction support for the project.

Minister meets Union Home Minister in Delhi

The minister, who was on a visit to New Delhi, informed that he met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and held discussions regarding the state’s disaster preparedness. He added that since Odisha is exposed to the elements quite often, he had sought the centre’s assistance in strengthening the state’s disaster management facilities.

“I asked the central government for assistance in disaster management as the state is prone to frequent such situations. Keeping in view the safety of people, the government has also decided to construct 800 more flood and relief shelters,” said the minister.

Multipurpose facilities near schools

According to Suresh Pujari, the proposed shelters will be built close to schools in coastal and vulnerable areas frequently affected by cyclones, floods and other calamities.

The facilities are designed to serve as safe havens for residents during disasters, while at other times they will be available for use in community and educational activities.

Pujari added that the multipurpose design will prevent the shelters from remaining unused or neglected during non-disaster periods.

“Apart from being life-saving infrastructure during calamities, these shelters will function as venues for schools and social functions of local communities,” he stated.

Existing shelter network

Notably, Odisha already has a network of cyclone shelters set up in the aftermath of the 1999 super cyclone, which have played a critical role in disaster management during subsequent cyclones such as Phailin, Fani and Yaas. The proposed 800 additional shelters are aimed at strengthening coverage in districts along the state’s 480-km coastline and other disaster-prone regions.