National Lightning Safety Workshop Kicks Off in Odisha Capital, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Stresses Measures to Minimise Lightning Deaths Across the State

Bhubaneswar,  Oct 17 [UDN}:A two-day National Lightning Safety Workshop has commenced in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with a focus on strengthening lightning prediction, improving early-warning systems and reducing fatalities caused by lightning strikes.

Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari inaugurated the workshop. The programme brings attention to the need for effective disaster preparedness, scientific forecasting and timely communication of warnings to protect lives, particularly in lightning-prone areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Pujari said that discussions at the workshop are aimed at identifying effective measures to reduce lightning-related deaths in the coming days. The deliberations are focused on improving the accuracy of lightning forecasts and ensuring that warnings reach people well before dangerous weather conditions occur.

A key area of discussion is the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to improve lightning prediction. These technologies could help strengthen forecasting capabilities, support the timely identification of potential lightning events and enable authorities to take preventive measures.

The workshop also highlights the importance of delivering advance warnings through multiple communication channels, including SMS alerts, Interactive Voice Response Systems (IVRS), mobile applications and public warning sirens. Such systems can help disseminate alerts quickly to people in vulnerable locations and give them time to move to safer places.

The initiative assumes particular importance for Odisha, where lightning remains a significant weather-related hazard. Strengthening early-warning mechanisms, raising public awareness and improving coordination among disaster management agencies are essential steps towards minimising casualties.

Through the two-day workshop, experts and officials are discussing technology-driven solutions and practical strategies to improve lightning safety. The broader objective is to establish more reliable forecasting and warning systems, enhance public preparedness and build a stronger disaster-management framework to protect lives from lightning strikes.