Fortifying Response and Disaster Mitigation: BMC Strateziges Long-term Measures

Bhubaneswar, August 1: An interdepartmental coordination meeting was held today under the chairmanship of Mayor in the presence of Commissioner, BMC with the objective of fortifying the response and disaster management system in urban flooding under BMC jurisdiction area.

The meeting saw the participation of various key officials, including ADCs, ZDCs, DCs, Executive Engineers, City Engineer, CFO, CHO, AHO, CMMO, ADUPHO, CGM, Senior officials of WATCO, SEs of all five R&B Divisions, TATA power Distribution Corporation Ltd., Assistant Fire Officer, and Site Engineer of NH.

As the rainy season continues, instances of waterlogging due to depression-related rainfall have been observed. The Mayor emphasized the need for preparedness and extending assistance to citizens in times of need, with the primary goal of aiding the community.

All line department officials were urged to be proactive in their respective roles, especially in ensuring citizen safety during heavy rainfall and waterlogging issues.

Yesterday, Bhubaneswar experienced a prolonged cloud-burst, resulting in numerous waterlogging incidents. Prompt action was taken by senior officials and Team BMC, collaborating with the line department, to address waterlogging issues in various areas.

The swift response by ODRAF, Fire Department, commiserate police, and corporators at Rajeev Nagar earned praise from the Mayor and Commissioner.

To foster sustainable development, the Commissioner has directed a vulnerability audit of areas, drains, roadways, constructions, and electric poles, enabling a comprehensive analysis of potential solutions. This information will be shared with the public.

Implementing facilities, with the active presence of government officials and workers in vulnerable areas, will instill trust and confidence in citizens, showcasing a real-time commitment to their well-being.

The approach emphasizes teamwork, timeliness, and transparency. Zonal officials, including line department representatives, have been directed to provide details of evacuation and emergency facilities required in times of urgency.