Compensation for electrocution on the cards in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Odisha government is planning to include electrocution in the list of notified disasters eligible for compensation from national and state disaster relief funds.

Addressing a meeting of state level committee on natural calamities here on Monday, Special Relief Commissioner Bishnupada Sethi said the State is currently providing compensation for deaths related to sunstroke, fire, lightning and others but discussions are on to provide relief for death related to electrocution.

As cases of electrocution are on the rise in the State, a proposal has been moved for the inclusion of electrocution in the list of notified disasters, Sethi added.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has said Odisha will be the first state in the country to make "Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS)" operational.

"People will be issued disaster warnings through Siren Alert Towers in six coastal districts and other provisions will also be made, which will help us in saving the lives and properties in the face of cyclone or tsunami," the chief minister said, adding that a large number of disaster risk reduction and capacity building initiatives have been undertaken and the State has adopted 'Zero Casualty' approach for all the disasters.

"With the timely onset of monsoon, we have to review our preparedness to tackle any likely flood and cyclone scenario. Adequate measures in respect of early warning system, rescue and relief operation, supply of drinking water, health and veterinary services must be put in place," Patnaik further added.