Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: The Jharkhand government has taken significant steps to manage disaster response following a high-level review meeting chaired by Disaster Management Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari. The meeting assessed the damage caused by lightning, heavy rainfall, snake bites, and other natural disasters, with detailed reports presented by Secretary Rajesh Kumar Sharma.
431 Deaths Reported from Multiple Disasters
In the past three months, 431 people have died in Jharkhand due to various natural disasters. Lightning strikes accounted for 180 deaths, heavy rains for 9, drowning for 161, snake bites for 80, and flooding for 1. These alarming numbers prompted immediate action by the state.
Widespread Damage to Homes and Crops
Severe rain has damaged housing across the state, especially in rural areas. Partial damage was reported to 7,979 kutcha (mud) houses, while 447 were completely destroyed. Among pucca (brick) houses, 208 were partially damaged, and 20 were fully destroyed. Additionally, 2,390 hectares of farmland across Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga, and Simdega districts suffered extensive crop loss. The state has already disbursed ₹44 crore in relief funds this fiscal year and plans to release more once final data is available.
Lightning Safety Project Approved
To tackle fatalities from lightning, the state approved a “Mitigation Project for Lightning Safety” in Jamtara, Dumka, and Barhet. Under this project, electric field mill devices will be installed to detect lightning activity and issue loudspeaker alerts up to three hours in advance to nearby communities.
Steps to Prevent Drowning Incidents
In a pioneering move, two divers from every district will be specially trained for rescue operations. Popular waterfall sites will also be secured with iron nets and chains to prevent accidents.
Real-Time Assistance Through MIS and GIS Portals
With JSAC’s support, the state is building MIS and GIS portals for disaster relief. These will enable GPS-based victim identification and direct digital payments into victims’ accounts, enhancing both response speed and accountability.
₹4 Lakh Compensation for Road Accident Victims
Minister Ansari directed that road accident victims’ families should receive the same ₹4 lakh compensation as other disaster cases. This policy shift aims to bring inclusivity and sensitivity to disaster compensation efforts.
Government Committed to Reducing Disaster Impact
Minister Ansari emphasized that while disasters cannot be entirely prevented, the state is committed to minimizing their impact. Monthly comprehensive review meetings will track the progress of disaster management initiatives to ensure continuous improvement.
