Bhubaneswar, 4 October (H.S.) In a significant step to bolster disaster preparedness and response, the Odisha government has announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art Disaster Management Centre in Bhubaneswar at an estimated cost of Rs 200 crore. The project is expected to be completed within the next two years.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari shared the details on Saturday, stating that land for the centre has been identified near the Lok Seva Bhawan. The new facility will consolidate key departments, including the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), Odisha Fire and Emergency Services, and the Meteorological Department, under one roof to enable faster and coordinated responses during natural disasters.

“Odisha faces multiple hazards annually, ranging from cyclones and floods to landslides. This integrated centre will ensure real-time management of emergency response, rescue, and relief operations with greater efficiency,” Minister Pujari said.

The minister added that, with central government support, the centre will be equipped with advanced disaster management technologies such as predictive modelling, real-time weather monitoring, and satellite-based communication tools.

The upcoming facility will serve as a command and control hub, featuring GIS systems, emergency operation rooms, multi-hazard early warning systems, and training and simulation units for disaster responders. The multi-storeyed building will also have underground quarters to accommodate personnel during emergencies, ensuring uninterrupted disaster monitoring and management.

“The new Disaster Management Centre will be fully equipped to manage disasters effectively and provide a centralised platform for coordination during calamities in Bhubaneswar and across the state,” Minister Pujari added.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda