Advanced State Emergency Operations Center Will Ensure Effective Disaster Response: Deputy CM Eknath Shinde

Mumbai : “We prioritize disaster response. With the newly modernized State Emergency Operations Center, we are fully equipped to handle any kind of emergency,” said Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. In light of the ongoing heavy rains across Maharashtra, he visited the state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center located at Mantralaya, reviewed its functioning, and interacted with the media.

He emphasized that the technologically advanced setup will enable the government to manage disasters more efficiently. During his visit, Shinde interacted with the trained personnel at the center, learning about their workflows and how the technology is used in real-time, and expressed his satisfaction with the system.

Additional Chief Secretary for Relief and Rehabilitation Sonia Sethi and Director of Disaster Management Satishkumar Khadke briefed the Deputy CM about the damage caused by the torrential rains since yesterday and the measures being taken to mitigate the impact.

Alert Sent to 95 Million Citizens

Sonia Sethi informed the Deputy CM that alerts regarding rainfall and possible lightning strikes were sent to 95 million citizens across the state using this technology-driven center. A red alert has also been issued for the Ghat regions of Thane, Raigad, Mumbai, and Pune.

Deputy CM Shinde noted that constant coordination is being maintained through the Disaster Management Center with NDRF teams, other rescue agencies, district administrations, and municipal corporations. Timely alerts are being sent, which ensures that rescue and relief operations can be initiated without delay whenever needed.

Discussion with Technical Experts

During his visit, Shinde also had in-depth discussions with technical and expert staff to understand the real-time functioning of the center. He appreciated their 24×7 service and issued instructions to immediately resolve any accommodation or logistical issues faced by the personnel.

Emergency Response Teams for All Municipal Corporations

Following the model of Thane, the Deputy CM directed Dr. Govindraj, Principal Secretary of Urban Development, to initiate the immediate deployment of emergency response teams in all municipal corporations. He also reviewed the progress of the disaster mitigation projects in the Konkan region.

Also present during the visit were Principal Secretary to the Deputy CM Naveen Sona, along with officials and staff from the State Emergency Operations Center.