Odisha CM lauds NDRF for effective handling of Phailin

Sharing its success on effective handling of cyclone Phailin in Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today lauded the National Disaster Response Force's role in the massive evacuation of people ahead of the calamity in October last.

"I must make a special mention of NDRF's role in Phailin. Your prompt response in pre-positioning in the danger zones, outstanding performance in rescuing endangered lives and in relief operations has been commendable," Patnaik said while addressing the 9th Raising Day of the NDRF at Mundali near Cuttack.

Stating that he would like to place on record about the state government's appreciation of the NDRF, Patnaik said: "The performance of the state and the Central forces in large scale evacuation and rescue operations ensured extremely minimal loss of life."

Effective handling helped control the disaster in the state and the death toll was also low compared to that in 1999 because of the super cyclone. While 21 people died due to Phailin, 10,000 lives were perished in 1999.

Contrary to apprehensions, Patnaik said the efforts have been lauded nationally and internationally.

The Chief Minister said the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has also developed skills in handling disasters. "We intend to further upgrade the abilities of this force. We would expect NDRF to be more closely associated with the capacity building of ODRAF," Patnaik said.