Bhubaneswar: Odisha govt has planned a grand event on Tuesday to mark 25 years since the Super Cyclone hit the state leading to the loss of 10,000 lives. The event aims to highlight Odisha’s transformation into a resilient state with expertise in disaster management.
“It will reflect on Odisha’s transformation over the years, evolving from the deep sorrow of the past to becoming resilient against cyclones and other disasters, such as the recent successful handling of Cyclone Dana. Discussions will cover the learnings from these experiences, and the govt will share insights and recommendations to further strengthen the state’s disaster management capabilities for the future,” a senior officer said.
The event, scheduled to take place at the Odisha Fire and Disaster Response Academy, Baramunda, will showcase the state’s advancements in disaster preparedness, response, and resilience over the past quarter century.
Notable attendees will include chief minister Mohan Majhi, revenue and disaster management minister Suresh Pujari, chief secretary Manoj Ahuja, and representatives from national and international agencies, are expected to highlight Odisha’s disaster management evolution.
Key achievements since 1999 include the establishment of the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), deployment of specialized forces, such as the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and the development of robust cyclone shelters across coastal areas.