Mumbai: Disaster Management and Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan has directed all government departments in Maharashtra to operate in “action mode” to ensure effective implementation of disaster management initiatives. Stressing the sensitive nature of the department’s work, he said that continuous alertness and prompt action are crucial.
Mantralaya Holds High-Level Review
Mahajan was speaking during a review meeting held at Mantralaya to assess the functioning of the Disaster Management Department. Officials from various departments participated, including those joining via video conferencing from district and regional offices.
Approved Projects Must Be Fast-Tracked
He emphasized that departments must act swiftly and transparently to implement projects that have already received administrative approval. “Tender processes should be expedited, and funds provided by the government must be utilized within the specified timeframe,” he said.
Rural Awareness Campaigns to Be Launched
The minister also underlined the importance of grassroots awareness. He instructed officials to conduct village-level campaigns to ensure that communities understand and utilize the disaster response equipment supplied by the department. “We must ensure that people in rural areas are not just recipients of aid but are also aware of how to use it effectively,” he added.
Students to Be Trained in Disaster Management
Mahajan further proposed involving college students in disaster preparedness initiatives and providing them with relevant training, aiming to build a more disaster-resilient society through community participation.
The review concluded with a renewed call for timely execution, inter-departmental coordination, and community involvement to strengthen Maharashtra’s disaster response capabilities.
