On Thursday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh initiated the construction of a new building for the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA). During the event, Adityanath addressed the audience and highlighted the multitude of challenges that Uttar Pradesh faces as a result of its extensive geographical expanse.
“Previously, around 40 districts in the state were considered affected by floods, but we have managed to confine this danger to only four-five districts now,” he said, adding that if a disaster strikes today, people have confidence that the government will provide relief.
While laying the foundation stone for the five-storey building, which is being erected on a 1.5-acre plot of land at a cost of Rs 66.4 crore, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the importance of disaster management and the role of technology in raising public awareness. He emphasized the need to leverage technological advancements to enhance disaster preparedness and ensure the safety and well-being of the people. Pointing out that Uttar Pradesh has nine different climatic zones where the threat of disasters is always present, he said, “Due to the rivers coming from the Himalayas, there is a constant risk of flooding from July to October. Lightning strikes are common in Vindhya and Bundelkhand. Western Uttar Pradesh is located in an area that is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. The Terai region, adjacent to Nepal, is known for human-wildlife conflicts.”
In order to provide relief, many areas have been brought under the purview of disaster management for the first time, the chief
minister said.
