Mock drills to verify the preparedness for the floods were organised in all 30 districts of the State on Sunday.
Personnel of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Fire department participated in the mock exercises. Besides, district administration officials, panchayat-level workers, social organisations and people from various walks of life participated in the exercises.
While the ODRAF and NDRF officials oversaw the preparations, gram panchayat heads were appointed as chairmen of the shelter managing committees.
The mock drills are conducted on management of flood and cyclone disasters in 500 multi-purpose flood and cyclone shelters in the districts. Besides, communication and rescue equipments at the shelters are also checked during the drills as part of the preparedness activities.
In addition to this, the components of emergency kits with essential equipments like boat, portable power generator set, early warning equipment, tents, power saw, etc., to meet emergency situation at the time of natural disasters like floods ware also checked during the exercises.
Notably, the Indian Meteorological Department has predicted about 113 per cent rainfall during this monsoon, which could trigger possible floods in the State. In events of disasters, the Government has been taking stock of its preparedness.
Earlier this month, the Government has approved the State Disaster Management Plan for this year.