Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday urged the United Nations (UN) officials to set up an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation & Recovery in the state.
During a meeting with the officials of the UN, World Bank, Asian Development Bank and other International organisations led by Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Naveen said the United Nations system plays an important role in developing global public goods. Therefore, the United Nations University may consider setting up an International Centre for Disaster Mitigation & Recovery in Bhubaneswar.
This could help in developing the expertise that Odisha has gained in this sector as well as in building international best practices for use across the world, he said.
He assured the UN team to provide all possible support for establishment of this Centre in Bhubaneswar.
Putting emphasis on disaster proofing of energy infrastructure, development of resilient communication network and restoration of livelihoods, the Chief Minister urged the UN team to modify the existing programmes to incorporate some of these activities for early implementation in the state.
Appreciating the efforts of the state government in pre-cyclone evacuation, the delegation said timely efforts of the state government saved the lives of many people. They also admired the relief and restoration work taken up by the state and assured full cooperation.