Effective Use of Social Media Crucial for Disaster Management: Director Dr Kishor Gangurde

Official Information Must Reach Citizens Promptly During Monsoon Emergencies

Mumbai, June 2026 : Emphasising the growing importance of digital communication in disaster response, Director (Information–Administration) Dr Kishor Gangurde said that along with on-ground emergency response systems, official social media platforms must remain fully active to ensure timely dissemination of authentic information during the monsoon season.

He urged government departments, municipal corporations and public agencies to regularly update their verified social media handles so that citizens receive accurate and reliable information during emergencies.

Dr Gangurde was speaking at a virtual meeting of Public Relations Officers (PROs) representing various government departments and civic agencies in Mumbai to review monsoon disaster preparedness. The meeting was organised by the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations (DGIPR).

Also present were Director (Information–News and Public Relations) Govind Ahankari, Deputy Director (Information) Varsha Andhale, Acting Deputy Director (Administration) Dr Jagdish More, and Public Relations Officers from several government departments and civic bodies.

Importance of Timely Communication

Dr Gangurde said that although the monsoon had not yet fully set in this year, all agencies should complete their preparedness in advance.

He called upon the Public Relations Officers of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Mira-Bhayandar, Ulhasnagar, Panvel, Navi Mumbai, Vasai-Virar, Palghar Municipal Corporations, and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to regularly inform citizens about precautionary measures and preparedness initiatives undertaken by their respective organisations.

He cautioned that delays in releasing official information during disasters often lead to the rapid spread of rumours and misinformation on social media.

“All government departments and municipal corporations should verify that their official social media accounts are functional and ensure they are used regularly for public communication,” he said.

Social Media a Powerful Emergency Tool

Dr Gangurde noted that social media has become an extremely effective platform for issuing emergency alerts during floods, heavy rainfall and other natural disasters.

He said official platforms should be used to provide:

• Emergency warnings and advisories.
• Traffic diversions.
• Rescue and relief operation updates.
• Safety instructions and public guidance.

He urged all departments, particularly disaster management authorities, to remain proactive on their official social media accounts and maintain continuous communication with citizens throughout the monsoon.

According to him, rapid dissemination of verified information not only helps curb rumours but also strengthens public confidence in the administration while improving overall public safety.

All Agencies Must Work in Coordination

Addressing the meeting, Director (Information–News and Public Relations) Govind Ahankari stressed that all departments should proactively release accurate, transparent and timely information instead of waiting to issue clarifications after an emergency has escalated.

He said prompt communication would minimise public inconvenience, prevent misinformation and reduce unnecessary public anger directed at the government.

“Every monsoon brings different kinds of emergency situations. Even if the lapse is on the part of a local body or another agency, the public ultimately holds the government responsible. Therefore, every department must remain fully prepared and treat disaster communication with utmost seriousness,” he said.

Ahankari further stated that whenever disruptions occur due to railway services, electricity supply, waterlogging or any other reason, citizens should immediately be informed.

He said authorities should promptly communicate:

• Roads affected by traffic disruptions.
• Delays or suspension of railway services.
• Areas experiencing waterlogging.
• Routes that commuters should avoid.

Timely dissemination of such information enables citizens to plan their travel and activities more effectively, he added.

Ahankari also instructed officials to ensure that emergency updates are circulated immediately through WhatsApp groups, All India Radio, and official social media platforms, stating that proactive advisories are far more effective than delayed responses.

During the meeting, Public Relations Officers representing various government and semi-government organisations in Mumbai also presented details of the precautionary measures and communication strategies being adopted for emergency situations during the upcoming monsoon season.