NHRC Directs Odisha Government to Formulate SOP for Lightning and Thunderstorm Deaths

Kendrapara (Odisha), Feb 10 – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the Chief Secretary of Odisha to formulate a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for providing compensation and support to families affected by lightning and thunderstorm-related deaths and injuries in the state.

The directive follows a petition filed by human rights activist Radhakanta Tripathy, who urged the NHRC to take action to reduce fatalities and injuries caused by lightning. The commission, acting on the petition, passed the order last Friday.

The NHRC noted that Tripathy had proposed multiple steps to mitigate the risks associated with lightning and thunderstorm incidents. The commission emphasized that, since the Odisha government has already undertaken measures to minimize fatalities, it should consider Tripathy’s suggestions while framing further policies.

Tripathy highlighted the rising number of lightning-related deaths in districts such as Kendrapara, Balasore, Bhadrak, and Dhenkanal. He lamented that, despite the frequent occurrences, the state government has yet to implement a comprehensive action plan to address the issue effectively.

In response to the NHRC’s notice, the Odisha government outlined its ongoing initiatives to raise awareness about lightning and thunderstorms. These include village-level street plays and folk dances, the installation of flex banners displaying safety guidelines in Odia, and awareness programs in schools, colleges, self-help groups, and local youth organizations. Additionally, ASHA and Anganwadi workers are being trained to disseminate early warnings about lightning and thunderstorms.

The state government further noted that lightning has been officially recognized as a natural calamity under Section 3(1) of the Odisha Relief Code and categorized as a ‘State Specific Disaster’ by the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA).

In his rejoinder, Tripathy reiterated the need for a detailed SOP to streamline compensation and support mechanisms for affected families. He also stressed the importance of strengthening public awareness and education on lightning safety to reduce fatalities and injuries.

The NHRC’s directive marks a significant step toward ensuring a structured and effective approach to mitigating the devastating impact of lightning and thunderstorms in Odisha.