Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 8: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday inaugurated the state-of-the-art State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), a major step towards revolutionizing disaster management in the state with cutting-edge technology and AI integration.
Speaking at the inauguration, Fadnavis highlighted the evolving challenges posed by climate change, saying, “The nature, intensity and frequency of disasters are changing. It is now more important than ever to focus on mitigation and swift response. A strong command and communication system is key, and this new centre will ensure rapid and coordinated action.”
The SEOC is equipped with an advanced bezel-free video wall, high-speed computers, audio-visual conferencing facilities, data servers, satellite phones, ham radios, LED displays and wireless sets – all aimed at enabling real-time coordination among emergency agencies.
A standout feature is the integration of Geo-DSS (Ground-based Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance), which uses AI and machine learning to carry out ‘change detection’ via satellite imagery. This will help authorities assess the damage and deploy relief swiftly during disasters.
The new centre also features a unified GIS-based dashboard offering early warning alerts, vulnerability mapping, threat monitoring and activation of emergency responses. Dedicated desks have been set up for critical support services including NDRF, SDRF, police, fire, health, and other key departments.
Adding to the public outreach component, the government has launched a mobile application named ‘Disaster assistant’. This citizen-friendly app enables individuals to send SOS alerts and report incidents in real-time, fostering two-way communication during emergencies.
In another major development, the state has approved Rs 184 cr for the construction of a State Institute of Disaster Management (SIDM) in Nagpur. This institute will offer comprehensive disaster management training and serve as a research hub.
Meanwhile, under the Maharashtra Responsive Development Programme (MRDP) with World Bank assistance, 34 district-level Emergency Operations Centres (DEOC) and three municipal corporations—Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad, Kolhapur and Ichalkaranji are also being modernized. These will feature an Integrated Emergency Management System (IEMS), resilience networks and ICT tools, and will be seamlessly linked with the SEOC.
The initiative marks a significant leap in Maharashtra’s preparedness and resilience against natural and man-made disasters, reaffirming the state’s commitment to safeguarding lives and infrastructure.