Bhubaneswar, A major national-level conference is set to be held in Odisha, where ministers from all states, former diplomats, and disaster management experts will participate. Odisha has expressed its preparedness and leadership in presenting practical solutions based on its experience in disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts, especially in education and awareness.
Regional News: Mock Drill Conducted at Multipurpose Cyclone Shelter in Kotpad
Kotpad (News) – A mock drill was recently conducted at the Multipurpose Cyclone Shelter in Sadaranga Panchayat under Kotpad Block to review local disaster preparedness and assess emergency response skills.
The event was organized as part of pre-disaster preparedness to tackle potential natural calamities like floods and cyclones. The drill was led by the Block Development Officer (BDO) in the evening.
The ODRAF team demonstrated various life-saving techniques such as rescuing from water, handling snake bites, fire safety, and safety during floods, lightning, and landslides. They also explained the operation of equipment and tools available at the cyclone shelter.
The program saw the participation of local officials, including the Block Health Officer, CDPO Sunita Tripathi, GPEO, PEO, CRP MBK, and others. Representatives from Anganwadi, ASHA workers, ward members, and volunteers from CSNR (an NGO) were also present.
During the meeting, emphasis was placed on:
Accelerating village-level disaster management processes
Coordinating between various departments
Maintaining disaster response equipment at cyclone shelters for timely use
Ensuring the safety of lives, livestock, homes, and crops during disasters
The mock drill was well-coordinated by the president and secretary of the Cyclone Shelter Committee.
State Disaster Management Consultant Meghnad Behera attended the program as an observer and advised that all departmental coordination, preparation, and development planning must incorporate disaster management measures.