Naveen seeks International Centre for Disaster Mitigation & Recovery

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday proposed the United Nations officials to set up an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation & Recovery in Odisha.

During a meeting with the officials of the United Nations, World Bank, Asian Development Bank and other International organisations led by Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Naveen said that the United Nations 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 & Recovery at Bhubaneswar, he said.

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 to provide all possible support for establishment of this Centre in Bhubaneswar.

Giving emphasis on disaster proofing of energy infrastructure, development of 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 that the timely efforts of the state government saved the lives of many people.

They also admired the relief and restoration work taken up by the state and assured full cooperation.