Odisha Strengthens Chemical Disaster Preparedness with Statewide Safety Measures
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified its efforts to strengthen chemical disaster preparedness across the state, placing a strong emphasis on public safety, rapid emergency response, and coordinated action among key departments.
These decisions were discussed during a meeting of the State Crisis Group at Lok Seva Bhawan.
Based on the report published by Chemical Disaster Preparedness: Odisha Govt Prioritises Safety and Rapid Response, the government has directed departments and industrial authorities to enhance preventive and response mechanisms.
Presiding over the meeting, Anu Garg, Chief Secretary of Odisha, stressed that industrial growth must be accompanied by robust safety measures.
She called for the early identification of chemical risks and highlighted the importance of conducting regular mock drills, safety audits, and data-based risk assessments to improve preparedness at both district and local levels.
Development Commissioner Deoranjan Kumar Singh emphasised the need for a comprehensive and coordinated framework involving all departments and district administrations.
He advocated the use of GIS-based risk mapping, periodic reviews of off-site emergency plans, and heightened vigilance along routes used for the transportation of hazardous chemicals.
Director General of Fire Services Dr Sudhanshu Sarangi underscored the significance of building emergency response capacity.
He highlighted the need for trained personnel, specialised vehicles, and joint emergency exercises involving multiple agencies to ensure a swift and effective response during chemical incidents.
Officials from the police, health, transport, environment, and labour departments participated in the review meeting.
Discussions focused on improving medical preparedness, strengthening emergency databases, and enhancing the efficiency of control rooms for disaster management.
The state government has instructed all concerned stakeholders to strictly adhere to safety protocols and implement preventive measures to minimise the risks associated with chemical accidents.
The initiative reflects Odisha’s commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting property, and ensuring industrial safety through better planning and preparedness.
