India with its vast coastline of over 7,500 km, is highly vulnerable to cyclones that often wreak havoc on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. To address these challenges, the country has implemented several forward-looking initiatives aimed at minimizing the impact of cyclones and ensuring the safety and resilience of its coastal communities. These initiatives combine structural improvements, policy reforms, and advanced forecasting systems, underscoring India’s commitment to disaster preparedness and mitigation.
National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP)
The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) is a flagship initiative launched to reduce the vulnerability of coastal states and Union Territories to cyclonic disasters. The project takes a two-pronged approach, incorporating structural measures like cyclone shelters and resilient infrastructure, alongside non-structural measures such as capacity-building and early warning systems.
Scope and Objectives: Designed for coastal states and UTs, NCRMP aims to safeguard vulnerable communities from cyclones and related hydro-meteorological calamities.
Implementation and Support: The project, spanning from 2015 to 2020 in its first phase, is being implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) with financial assistance from the World Bank.
Achievements: Through this project, numerous cyclone shelters, embankments, and other protective structures have been built, alongside the development of robust early warning dissemination systems.
Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Project
In August 2019, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) introduced the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Project. This comprehensive initiative aims to sustainably manage India’s coastal ecosystems while balancing environmental conservation with developmental needs.
Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ): As part of the ICZM, the CRZ Notification 2018 and 2019 introduced reforms focusing on sustainable development in coastal areas. These notifications provide clear guidelines for development while protecting sensitive coastal zones.
Outcomes: The ICZM project promotes ecosystem restoration, livelihood generation for coastal communities, and the development of climate-resilient infrastructure.
India Meteorological Department’s Colour Coding System
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) plays a pivotal role in issuing early warnings for cyclones, using a colour-coded system to alert authorities and citizens well in advance.
Colour Codes:
Green: No warning, all is well.
Yellow: Be aware; conditions are favorable for a cyclone.
Orange: Be prepared; cyclonic conditions are likely.
Red: Take action; the cyclone is imminent or already occurring.
Dynamic Warning System: In December 2020, IMD announced the introduction of a dynamic, impact-based cyclonic warning system. This innovative approach, developed in collaboration with NDMA, INCOIS, and state governments, tailors warnings based on anticipated impacts, improving response efficacy.
Technological Advancements and Collaboration
India’s cyclone management strategy leverages technology and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Advanced radar systems, satellite imagery, and predictive models enable accurate forecasting, while the NDMA coordinates with local governments to ensure timely evacuations and resource deployment.
A Global Model in Cyclone Management
These initiatives collectively demonstrate India’s proactive approach to disaster management, showcasing a blend of technology, policy, and grassroots-level implementation. By safeguarding lives, protecting infrastructure, and enhancing community resilience, India is setting an example for other nations vulnerable to cyclonic disasters.
As these efforts continue to evolve, they highlight the importance of preparedness, early warning systems, and sustainable development in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters in an increasingly climate-affected world.