Each year, Odisha reports a considerable number of deaths attributed to lightning
OdishaPlus Bureau
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has formally requested a report from the chief secretary of Odisha regarding the measures taken in response to the alarming number of fatalities and injuries caused by lightning and thunderstorms in the state. Over the past 5 years, lightning strikes have resulted in the deaths of 1,625 individuals. This request was made on Monday following a petition submitted by human rights advocate and attorney Radhakanta Tripathy, who contended that the Odisha government has failed to develop a comprehensive action plan aimed at reducing lightning-related fatalities.
Each year, Odisha reports a considerable number of deaths attributed to lightning. In light of this issue, the NHRC has acknowledged the situation and has mandated that the state government provide the action taken report to the Commission within a 6-week timeframe. As per the Climate Resilient Observing-Systems Promotion Council, Tripathy’s petition indicated that Odisha has experienced a total of 10,741 lightning-related deaths over the last five years.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated in the state assembly that Odisha has reported 1,625 fatalities attributed to lightning strikes from 2019-20 to 2023-24. The petitioner expressed concerns regarding inconsistencies in the reports, emphasizing that these discrepancies should be carefully considered by the authorities during the report submission process.
Furthermore, the petitioner noted that only 7 out of the 36 states and Union territories have established action plans. In 2019, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) recommended that states formulate lightning action plans by the guidelines for the prevention and management of thunderstorms, lightning, squalls, dust storms, hailstorms and strong winds.
The petitioner urged the Commission to mandate the state to develop and implement a comprehensive lightning action plan and to provide substantial compensation to the families of those who have lost their lives due to lightning strikes without delay.
On September 5, Pujari addressed the state assembly, asserting that the state government disseminates early warning messages concerning impending lightning events through various channels to ensure that the public remains vigilant during such occurrences. The government is actively promoting awareness about lightning through advertisements, posters, banners, wall paintings and community meetings.
Additionally, he emphasized the importance of educating individuals on how to protect themselves from lightning strikes. Furthermore, he mentioned that the government is conducting training programs in ten districts that are particularly susceptible to lightning, focusing on effective mitigation strategies.
