Patna: The 13th meeting of the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority was held in Patna on Tuesday, with chief minister Nitish Kumar reviewing progress on preparedness and response measures across the state.
The meeting took place at the Sankalp auditorium at 1 Aney Marg, where the authority’s vice-chairman, Uday Kant, presented an overview of ongoing initiatives. Officials also assessed compliance with decisions taken during the previous meeting and reviewed their current status.
Addressing the meeting, Kumar said Bihar had strengthened its disaster management framework since his government came to power in November 2005. He highlighted the introduction of standard operating procedures for handling floods, droughts, fires, earthquakes and heatwaves, as well as provisions for free food, cash assistance and compensation for losses to crops, homes and livestock.
He also pointed to new infrastructure, including the Sardar Patel Bhawan, which houses the disaster management department alongside the home department. The building has been designed to be earthquake-resistant and includes a rooftop helipad and a state-level disaster control centre intended to support emergency operations.
“We firmly believe that disaster victims hold the first claim to the state exchequer,” Kumar said, urging officials to ensure timely assistance and effective implementation of relief measures.
A short film showcasing the authority’s work was screened during the meeting, after which Kumar released a book titled Bihar Ki Aapda Prabandhan Yatra, documenting the state’s efforts in disaster management.
