Odisha CM seeks international disaster mitigation centre

Bhubaneswar, May 15 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday placed a proposal before UN officials to set up an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation and Recovery in the state.The Chief Minister had a meeting with officials of the UN, World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and other international organisations along with the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance.Naveen said that the UN system plays an important role in developing global public goods. "Therefore, the United Nations University may consider setting up an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation and Recovery in Bhubaneswar," he added.This could help in building upon the expertise that Odisha has gained in this sector as well as in developing international best practices for use across the world, the Chief Minister said.He assured the UN team of providing all possible support for the establishment of this Centre in Bhubaneswar.He laid emphasis on disaster proofing of energy infrastructure, development of a resilient communication network and restoration of livelihoods.The Chief Minister urged the UN team to modify the existing programmes to incorporate some of these activities for early implementation in the state.Appreciating the efforts of the state government in pre-cyclone evacuation, the delegation said the timely efforts of the government saved the lives of many people.They also praised the relief and restoration work taken up by the state and assured full cooperation.
--IANS cd/pgh/