In a significant move to enhance disaster preparedness, the Gujarat government, in collaboration with the Centre and the World Bank, has established 76 multi-purpose cyclone shelters (MPCS) across the state. These shelters, strategically located in coastal districts, aim to safeguard lives during natural calamities.
The cyclone shelters are distributed as follows: 25 in Junagadh, 29 in Gir Somnath, five in Bharuch, four each in Porbandar, Devbhumi Dwarka, and Kutch, two in Amreli, and one each in Jamnagar, Navsari, and Ahmedabad. Gujarat, with India’s longest coastline of approximately 1,600 km, has a history of facing severe cyclones, including Biparjoy in 2023, Tauktae in 2021, and Nisarga in 2000. Despite causing significant damage, recent cyclones like Biparjoy did not result in casualties, largely due to effective evacuation efforts.
During cyclones Biparjoy and Tauktae, over one lakh people were relocated to safe areas, primarily primary schools and other temporary shelters. Recognizing the need for permanent infrastructure, the state government initiated the construction of these cyclone shelters. These facilities are equipped with community kitchens to provide fresh meals and standby medical teams for regular health checks.
Local communities have responded positively to the new shelters. Kirti Gaur, the sarpanch of Maska village in the Kachchh district, praised the initiative, stating, “Shelters have been built due to the wisdom of the Gujarat government. There are problems in moving people. With these cyclone shelters, there will be no casualties and people will be able to resume their work comfortably.”
The government is also training villagers and providing them with necessary resources for comprehensive disaster preparedness. In addition, a standard operating procedure (SOP) has been developed to rescue wildlife, including the endangered Gir lions and other vulnerable animals, during cyclones.
The establishment of these multi-purpose cyclone shelters represents a proactive approach to disaster management, ensuring the safety and well-being of both human and animal populations in Gujarat’s cyclone-prone coastal regions.
Sources By Agencies