Disaster Preparedness / Odisha Signs MoUs with UNDP, Civic Data Lab for Tech‑Driven Disaster Management

Bhubaneswar, Sept 2: Odisha has entered a new chapter in disaster management with the signing of two crucial memoranda of understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening data‑driven, scientific and technology‑enabled preparedness.

The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) formalized partnerships with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Civic Data Lab in the presence of Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, UNDP India’s Resident Representative Angela Lusigi, and Civic Data Lab co‑founder Gaurav Godhwani.

Minister Pujari emphasized that disaster response must move beyond reactive measures. “Our main goal is to be prepared with accurate data in advance and protect lives and livelihoods,” he said.

Also read: Heavy Rains Trigger Floods in Odisha Districts, Mayurbhanj Worst Hit

Under the UNDP collaboration, Hazard, Risk and Vulnerability Assessments (HRVA) will be conducted across all 30 districts. Data will be collected at the village level in 10 coastal districts and at the panchayat level in the remaining 20, feeding into a dynamic GIS‑enabled digital platform.

The Civic Data Lab partnership will establish an independent IDS‑DRR digital platform to provide precise forecasts and decision‑making support for river floods, coastal inundations and cyclones. Officials said these initiatives will mark a milestone in making Odisha safer and more disaster‑resilient.

Meanwhile, Baleshwar district is facing a worsening flood situation as the Subarnarekha river continues to flow above danger levels. At Rajghat, where the danger mark is 10.36 metres, the water level rose to 11.59 metres by noon.

Rising waters have inundated low‑lying areas in Baliapal, Bhograi and Jaleswar blocks, submerging farmland and damaging freshly transplanted paddy.

Residents reported floodwaters entering homes, destroying food grains, furniture and household items. Roads in several places are under four feet of water, cutting off communication.

Villagers are relying on country boats and powerboats for movement. Livestock are also suffering, with cattle left hungry as floodwaters cover grazing areas.

Minister Pujari confirmed that “Baliapal and Bhograi blocks are severely affected, with 25 panchayats under floodwaters. The administration is on the ground, providing cooked food to affected families.”

Relief operations are ongoing, but repeated floods have deepened the distress of communities along the Subarnarekha.