In 1999, ‘BoB 06’, a supercyclone with 250 kmph winds made landfall near Paradip in Jagatsinghpur of Odisha claiming
more than 9,000 lives and leaving millions homeless.
- However, since then, Odisha’s cyclone management has undergone a sea change, and in 2013 and 2014, it was lauded as a 'global example' by the UN.
Key Issues in 1999’s Disaster Response
- Ignored Warnings: Despite IMD alerts, authorities and public underestimated storm’s severity.
- Lack of Preparedness: Inadequate location-specific landfall warnings, limited resources, and poor communication strategy was seen.
Disaster resilient initiatives taken since 1999
- State
- Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA): Odisha founded India’s first state-level disaster management agency that led to decentralized disaster response and minimized bureaucratic delays.
- Mission Zero Casualty: OSDMA introduced cyclone shelters, rapid response teams, and streamlined protocols to reduce human casualties in cyclones and floods.
- Community-centred efforts: Involving local volunteers, including members from gram panchayats and women’s SHGs, to lead rescue operations and reduce disaster risks.
- Centre
- Improved Early Warning and Response Systems: In 1999, IMD provided images every three hours. Now, it can provide data every 15 minutes.
- Disaster Management Act (DMA), 2005: Under it, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) was created.
About Cyclones Cyclones are caused by atmospheric disturbances around a low-pressure area distinguished by swift and often destructive air circulation.
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