Odisha Seeks Rs 9,500 Crore for Disaster Resilience

The Odisha government seeks Rs 9,500 crore from the central government for building cyclone shelters and disaster-resilient power infrastructure. Revenue and Disaster Management minister Suresh Pujari emphasized the need for 800 new shelters and underground power lines to mitigate disaster impact, requesting support from Union Ministers Amit Shah and Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

The Odisha government has submitted a request to the central government for a substantial Rs 9,500 crore for building approximately 800 cyclone and flood shelters, alongside fortifying power infrastructure against disasters.

Minister Suresh Pujari raised this appeal to Amit Shah, reflecting on the recent repairs of 1,000 existing shelters and highlighting the necessity for continued investment.

Pujari advocates for underground power lines in vulnerable areas, estimating a need for Rs 7,500 crore, aiming to ensure infrastructure resilience and continuous power supply during natural calamities. The state also seeks support for coastal soil erosion challenges and land settlement issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)