Odisha signs MoUs with UNDP and CivicDataLab for disaster management

The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) has signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and CivicDataLab to enhance the state’s disaster risk management through data and technology.

Under the agreement with the UNDP, a comprehensive hazard, risk, and vulnerability assessment (HRVA) will be conducted across all 30 districts of Odisha. This digital system is intended to provide a scientific evidence base for disaster mitigation, climate resilience, and sustainable development planning.

CivicDataLab will utilize its Intelligent Data Solutions for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDS-DRR) platform to integrate data from various departments. This will provide real-time dashboards and analytical insights to OSDMA and District Disaster Management Authorities. Data collection will occur at the village level in 10 coastal districts prone to cyclones and floods, while assessments in the remaining 20 districts will be conducted at the Gram Panchayat level.

Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari emphasized that data-driven decision-making is essential for saving lives, protecting property, and enabling effective development planning.