Bhubaneswar, June 19 (UDN): Confronted with nearly 9,000 drowning-related deaths over the last five years, the Odisha government has initiated a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing fatalities through enhanced safety measures, community participation and widespread awareness campaigns.
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The roadmap was finalized during a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan on Thursday. Senior officials from the Fire Services, Home Guards, Disaster Management and Revenue departments participated in the deliberations focused on tackling the persistent challenge of drowning incidents across the state.
According to official records, children and young people constitute a significant proportion of drowning victims. Most incidents occur in rivers, canals, ponds, reservoirs, open wells, waterfalls, beaches and other water bodies, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
To address the issue, the government has decided to scientifically identify and map accident-prone locations, or “black spots,” across Odisha. District administrations will be tasked with strengthening safety infrastructure at vulnerable sites by installing warning boards, protective railings, barricades and covers over open wells.
As part of the community-based approach, the state plans to train local volunteers as lifeguards in every gram panchayat. Trained rescue personnel will also be deployed at major tourist destinations, beaches and water bodies that attract large crowds. Safety equipment such as floating buoys, rescue ropes and emergency response tools will be made available at critical locations.
Recognizing the importance of prevention through education, the government will promote swimming as a basic life-saving skill. Special training camps will be organized for school students and youth groups to improve water safety awareness and survival skills.
In addition, members of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Civil Defence organisations and local youth clubs will receive specialized training in water rescue operations and first aid to strengthen emergency response capabilities at the grassroots level.
Emphasizing the need for coordinated action, the Chief Secretary directed all concerned departments to prepare and implement an integrated action plan aimed at significantly reducing drowning deaths and enhancing public safety across Odisha.
The initiative marks one of the state’s most comprehensive efforts to address water-related fatalities and build a culture of safety around Odisha’s vast network of rivers, canals, ponds and coastal areas.
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