The State Government on Tuesday decided to set up a disaster management training institute to impart safety training, especially in flood mitigation.
Official sources said the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) and Fire Service personnel would be trained in rescue during natural disasters. Besides, emphasis would also be laid on planning, preparedness and prevention along with relief, restoration and rehabilitation. At a meeting of the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority on Tuesday, chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, it was also decided that NCC and NSS cadets would be trained to strengthen ODRAF and Fire Service.
“These cadets will help ODRAF units in districts to meet any eventuality,” Special Relief Commissioner Pradipta Kumar Mohapatra said. He added that as many as 1,000 high school students would also be given training on flood response and safety. The State has so far received 9 per cent excess rainfall while Bhadrak, Boudh and Jagatsinghpur have recorded less rain.