Kotpad: Under the chairpersonship of Block Development Officer Mrs. Sandhyarani Samarth, a mock drill was conducted at the Multipurpose Cyclone Shelter in Sadaranga village to assess local preparedness and readiness in dealing with natural disasters.
The aim was to evaluate local capacity and improve disaster response to ensure zero casualties and safeguard lives and property during emergencies like floods and cyclones. The ODRAF team demonstrated life-saving techniques such as water rescue, snakebite management, fire safety, survival skills during floods, cyclones, lightning, and heatstroke. They also showcased the usage of various emergency equipment and tools available at the cyclone shelter.
Officials participating included the Block Health Officer, CDPO, GPO, PEO, CRPs, MBKs, Anganwadi and ASHA workers, ward members, and other block- and panchayat-level officers, along with representatives from the CSN&NR organization.
Discussions emphasized coordination among all departments to strengthen village-level disaster management systems. The importance of keeping all equipment at the cyclone shelters ready for immediate use was highlighted to ensure the protection of human lives, livestock, and crops during disasters.
The program was efficiently managed by the shelter’s president and secretary. State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) consultant Mr. Meghnad Behera participated as an observer. He advised all departments to integrate disaster management measures into development plans, focusing on preparedness and coordination at every level.