Patna: The Bihar government is preparing to expand its early warning disaster management system from the state level to every village and Panchayat, with a special focus on heatwaves and lightning-related incidents. The plan was discussed in a high-level meeting held at the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority on May 20.
The meeting was chaired by Vice-Chairman Dr. Uday Kant and attended by senior officials from the Disaster Management Department and the Bihar Meteorological Service Centre. Disaster Management Minister Ratnesh Sada attended as the chief guest.
Focus on Grassroots Early Warning System
Officials discussed a coordinated framework to strengthen real-time warning dissemination from the state level to blocks, Panchayats and wards. The system is expected to rely on multi-level communication channels and local response teams.
The proposed structure includes ward members, Aapda Mitras, trained swimmers, masons and master trainers to ensure rapid response and community-level preparedness during emergencies.
Authorities also reviewed improvements to the two-way communication system linking block-level units with state control mechanisms.
Minister Emphasises Outreach to Vulnerable Communities
Disaster Management Minister Ratnesh Sada said the government’s priority is to ensure that early warnings reach vulnerable populations on time, particularly labourers, farmers and marginalised communities.
He said efforts would focus on expanding awareness and strengthening coordination between departments to improve disaster response capacity across Bihar.
The minister added that public participation and awareness campaigns would play a key role in reducing disaster-related risks.
Heatwave Alert Issued for Multiple Districts
Director of the Bihar Meteorological Service Centre, C.N. Prabhu, informed the meeting that several districts in central and southern Bihar are likely to experience severe heat conditions between May 21 and May 26.
He said maximum temperatures may range between 41°C and 46°C in districts including Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Buxar, Bhojpur, Arwal, Jehanabad, Gaya, Patna, Nalanda, Nawada, Siwan, Saran, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, Jamui, Banka and Munger.
Temperatures are expected to remain above 40°C between 11 am and 4 pm, increasing risks of dehydration, fatigue, dizziness and heatstroke.
Awareness Drives and Technology Integration
Vice-Chairman Dr. Uday Kant stressed the need for targeted awareness campaigns in vulnerable Panchayats and timely dissemination of alerts through digital platforms, including the ‘Sachet’ mobile application.
He said the State Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (SPDRR) must be strengthened further through coordinated efforts and modern technology integration.
Officials said the ongoing upgrades aim to make disaster management systems more responsive, accessible and community-driven.
