Odisha’s 26 Villages Recognized as ‘Tsunami Ready’ by UNESCO

Disaster Management Disaster Management in India

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-01-24 04:50:11 |

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In a significant achievement, 26 villages in Odisha have been recognized as ‘Tsunami Ready’ by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC-UNESCO). This recognition highlights the successful collaboration between local communities, government agencies, and disaster management authorities in building disaster-resilient communities.

According to a press statement released on Saturday, December 21, 2024, the recognition covers six districts comprising 24 newly recognized villages, in addition to two villages that had previously received the certification. This makes Odisha a pioneering state in India to achieve such a distinction on an international platform.

The ‘Tsunami Ready’ recognition was granted based on the fulfillment of 12 specific indicators aimed at enhancing community resilience against tsunamis. These indicators were achieved through a series of meticulously planned activities such as training and capacity building, community awareness programs, and the distribution of tsunami awareness materials.

Additionally, significant efforts were undertaken to prepare tsunami management plans, conduct mock drills, identify evacuation routes, and install tsunami hoardings and signages to guide and educate residents effectively. These measures have collectively contributed to the overall preparedness of the villages, ensuring that they are equipped to respond efficiently in the event of a tsunami.

Officials from the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) stated that the initiative sets an example for other coastal regions to adopt similar measures and work towards achieving resilience. The proactive approach of Odisha in implementing these disaster preparedness strategies has drawn national and international attention, reinforcing the importance of community-led initiatives in disaster risk reduction.

With this milestone, Odisha continues to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding lives and property by enhancing its disaster resilience infrastructure, serving as a model for other vulnerable coastal regions across the world.

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