The preparedness efforts in Odisha have garnered significant attention both nationally and internationally
OdishaPlus Bureau
In Odisha, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC-UNESCO) has officially designated six districts, which include 24 villages along with two previously acknowledged villages, totaling 26 villages, as ‘Tsunami Ready,’ as announced in a press release on Saturday.
This recognition was granted based on the fulfillment of 12 specific criteria, achieved through a comprehensive series of initiatives aimed at enhancing resilience against tsunamis. These initiatives encompassed Training and Capacity Building, Community Awareness Programs, Distribution of Tsunami Awareness Materials, Development of Tsunami Management Plans, Execution of Mock Drills, Identification of Evacuation Routes, and Installation of Tsunami Hoardings and Signage.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) in Hyderabad has been instrumental in this endeavor. INCOIS operates a continuous 24-hour tsunami monitoring and alert system that includes risk assessment and the timely dissemination of warnings, facilitating prompt and effective responses. The preparedness efforts in Odisha have garnered significant attention both nationally and internationally.
A live evacuation simulation took place in Kaitha village, located in the Kendrapara district, with the attendance of Dr. T. Sinanivasa Kumar from UNESCO, Dr. Sunitha Jena, General Manager of OSDAMA, and Amlan Anupam Senapati, District Project Officer. The event saw active involvement from community members.
Engagements with local leaders and residents yielded significant insights into their preparedness efforts, which have now established a benchmark for coastal safety. Odisha’s designation as ‘Tsunami Ready’ exemplifies a successful partnership among India’s National Tsunami Warning Centre, local authorities, and coastal communities.
This initiative stands as a prominent illustration of how proactive strategies can safeguard lives and foster disaster-resilient communities.
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