Odisha government unveils Rs 200 crore plan to tackle urban flooding

Bhubaneswar, July 4: The BJP-led government in Odisha reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring zero casualties during natural disasters by announcing a series of initiatives on Thursday. Chief Minister Mohan Majhi chaired a meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar where several measures were discussed.

Key decisions included an increase in Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) units from 20 to 30 across the state, with a directive for the Home Department to enhance ODRAF's operational efficiency. The government also proposed establishing five regional Fire Services hubs to swiftly respond to emergencies like the recent Bahanaga triple-train tragedy.

The meeting focused on preemptive measures for managing potential flood situations during the monsoon season, with Special Relief Commissioner Satyabrata Sahu overseeing preparedness efforts. Emphasis was placed on tackling urban flooding caused by heavy rainfall, with a dedicated Rs 200 crore proposal earmarked for flood control projects. IIT Delhi will collaborate on developing technological solutions for flood management in cities like Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.

Additionally, the state plans to upgrade existing 24×7 flood control rooms into smart facilities to disseminate timely information. The Health Department has been instructed to ensure hospitals are well-stocked with anti-snake venom to handle incidents during flood emergencies.

Chief Minister Majhi underscored the government's proactive stance, stating, "ODRAF has been instrumental in disaster response, and we are expanding its presence to enhance our preparedness. The Rs 200 crore project to mitigate urban flooding underscores our commitment to safeguarding citizens during crises."