The BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Technical Meeting was inaugurated by Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in the city of Puri on June 4. This meeting underscores the state’s dedication to enhancing disaster resilience and promoting sustainable development in the face of climate change. The Chief Minister called for increased international and inter-state collaboration to tackle the escalating challenges arising from natural disasters.

During the opening address, Majhi welcomed attendees from various BRICS nations and characterised the event as a crucial platform to advance global disaster risk reduction initiatives. He pointed out that the meeting’s theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” reflects urgent global priorities aimed at protecting lives and livelihoods.

Joined and addressed the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Technical Meeting in Puri, where distinguished delegates, experts and representatives from #BRICS nations came together to deliberate on strengthening resilience against growing climate and disaster risks. The… pic.twitter.com/mbrnjTjhkD

— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) June 4, 2026

Majhi noted that disaster risk reduction is essential for sustainable development, economic stability, and human security. He expressed concerns about the growing impacts of climate change, rapid urbanisation, and environmental degradation, which contribute to an increase in disaster frequency and intensity globally.

Odisha’s Disaster Management Initiatives

The Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s internationally recognised disaster management framework based on the principle of “Zero Casualty.” He explained that the state has continuously fortified its disaster preparedness infrastructure through evidence-based planning, advanced early warning systems, and inclusive governance. Such measures reflect Odisha’s proactive approach in addressing disasters.

Mohan Charan Majhi addressed the specific vulnerabilities that Odisha faces, including cyclones, heatwaves, and coastal erosion. He emphasised the necessity for ongoing innovation and investment to improve resilience against climate-induced challenges. His remarks underscored that effective disaster management requires collaboration across various sectors and levels of governance.

Majhi affirmed that Odisha’s experience shows that robust community participation, preparedness, and strong institutional frameworks can substantially mitigate the impacts of disasters. However, he cautioned that future challenges will necessitate enhanced technological capabilities and stronger partnerships.

Government Initiatives and Future Infrastructure Projects

The Chief Minister acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in prioritising disaster risk reduction within India’s development agenda. He highlighted the Prime Minister’s Ten-Point Agenda, which outlines a comprehensive strategy focused on resilience, preparedness, and international cooperation. Majhi reiterated Odisha’s commitment to implement national directives at the state level, enhancing local disaster management systems and infrastructure.

Majhi brought attention to a recently approved 160-kilometre Greenfield Coastal Highway from Rameswar to Paradeep via Konark, which carries an estimated investment of Rs 8,301 crore. This project is projected to enhance the state’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities significantly. It is designed to provide an efficient transportation corridor along Odisha’s cyclone-prone coastline, facilitating quicker mass evacuations and ensuring stable supply chains during emergencies.

Alongside this initiative, Majhi mentioned other significant infrastructure projects, such as the Capital Region Ring Road (CRRR) and the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradeep Economic Region (BCPPER) project. Collectively, these initiatives aim to bolster economic growth while simultaneously enhancing the long-term resilience of the state against natural disasters and climate change impacts.

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