BJD Criticizes Odisha Governments Disaster Preparedness After Landslides and Floods

Bhubaneswar, October 31 (Daily Kiran) : The recent devastation caused by Cyclone Arnab, which led to significant landslides in Kandhamal and severe flooding in Ganjam, has drawn sharp criticism from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). Rajya Sabha MP Sulata Dev accused the Odisha government, led by the BJP, of serious shortcomings in disaster management and preparedness.

Expressing concern over the loss of life and the plight of those affected, Dev questioned the government’s response efforts. She highlighted that despite receiving advance warnings of heavy rainfall, the government failed to protect its citizens.

Tragically, a landslide in Kandhamal resulted in the deaths of three family members, including a newborn, while reports of missing villagers have emerged from the affected areas. Dev raised alarms regarding the government’s disaster relief measures, emphasizing the need for accountability.

Additionally, she pointed out that the Doppler weather radar system has been inactive for nearly a year, which she claimed hampered the administration’s ability to forecast heavy rains accurately and implement timely preventive measures.

Comparing the current situation to the disaster management system under former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Dev noted that the previous government prioritized emergency response through inter-departmental coordination, early warnings, and a centralized control room.

She criticized the current administration for lacking foresight, coordination, and effective planning to address crises. Dev urged the government to expedite rescue operations for those trapped in flood- and landslide-affected areas, ensuring access to food, safe drinking water, medications, and proper medical care.

In a call to action, she appealed to BJD leaders and party workers across Odisha to provide all possible assistance to families in distress. Dev concluded by stressing that saving lives and providing immediate relief to affected individuals should be the government’s top priority, demanding accountability for its alleged failures in disaster management.