State-of-the-art disaster management centre worth Rs 200 crore to come up in Bhubaneswar

In a major move to strengthen disaster preparedness and response capacity, the Odisha government has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art Disaster Management Centre worth Rs 200 crore within the next two years.

The information was shared by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari on Saturday. He also added that land for the facility has been identified near the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar.

Integrated Disaster Response Hub

The Minister informed that the new building will bring key departments, including the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), Odisha Fire and Emergency Services, and the Meteorological Department, under one roof for faster coordination during natural calamities. 

“Odisha faces multiple hazards every year, from cyclones and floods to landslides. This integrated facility will ensure that emergency response, rescue, and relief operations are managed in real time with greater efficiency,” Minister Pujari said.

He added that with assistance from the Central government, Odisha will introduce advanced disaster management technologies, including predictive modelling, real-time weather tracking, and satellite-based communication tools.

Modern Disaster Infrastructure And Policy Push

Minister Pujari also stated that the upcoming Disaster Management Centre will function as a command and control centre equipped with GIS systems, emergency operation rooms, and multi-hazard early warning facilities. It will also host training and simulation units for disaster responders.

“The new building will be multi-storeyed and also have underground quarters. In case there are any calamities in Bhubaneswar, people will be stationed there. The new office will be sufficiently equipped to monitor and manage disasters effectively,” he added.

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Landslide Master Plan After Gajapati Incident

The announcement comes close on the heels of the recent landslide in Gajapati district, which claimed two lives and caused significant damage to roads and houses.

The Minister confirmed that the Odisha government will soon implement a Master Plan to address landslide risks across hill and mountainous regions of Odisha, identifying all vulnerable zones.

He further directed that low-lying and flood-prone roads, especially in Malkangiri, Rayagada, and Kalahandi districts, be elevated to prevent disconnection during heavy rains.

District Collectors have been instructed to immediately assess the extent of damage and submit reports for compensation disbursement. Relief assistance is being provided to affected families in these districts.