January 2011
Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public GrievancesMinistry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of Indiahttp://indiagovernance.gov.in/
Researched and Documented by
OneWorld Foundation India
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
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Table of Contents BACKGROUND ................................
OBJECTIVE ................................................................
WORKING DESIGN ................................
METHODOLOGY ................................
KEY STAKEHOLDERS ................................
LESSONS LEARNED ................................
APPENDIX A:INTERVIEW QUESTIONNAIRE
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Public Grievances and Pensions
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Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
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UESTIONNAIRE ................................................................
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
1
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The devastation caused by super cyclone in 1999 brought a paradigm shift in the disaster
management policy in the state of Odisha. As an immediate aftermath, the government decided
to establish Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to undertak
responsibilities within the state. Over the years, the government has reinforced its commitment
towards pre-disaster preparedness instead of just a post
lives during natural and man
taskforce, known as Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), to rescue people at the time
of crisis.
The ODRAF was created with a vision to enhance the search & rescue efforts in the state. It was
established in 2000 under the OSDMA but the authoritative command for deployment is
directed through the Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) because the personnel are part
of the Odisha State Armed Police (OSAP) and Armed Reserve Police (ARP) of District Police.
To ensure proper response to emergency situations, ODRAF has adopted following strategies:
• Designed a Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) to inform personnel on how to
function in various situations.
• Trained the personnel in basic first aid, on using self
rescuing people from heights, operating boats and also in maintaining some basic
equipment like chain saw and inflatable tower light.
• Continuous procurement of latest equipment based on feedback by their personnel. The
units have been provided with rescue equipment and also communication devices such
as telephone, fax, VHF and mobile phones. Efforts are being made to set up HAM
Radio Stations.
The ODRAF focuses on coordination with stakeholders at various levels of ad
the state and also has an interface mechanism with national level disaster management
authorities to improve operational efficiency.
In almost a decade of its existence, the ODRAF has been cited in the media for its effort in
assisting people during natural and man
1 In an emergency, HAM radio or Amatuer radio is used by OSDMA to communicate with the people in affected
areas. There are 21 HAM radio stations run by volunteers in Orissa.
RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
Public Grievances and Pensions
Researched and documented by
OneWorld Foundation India
Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
UMMARY
The devastation caused by super cyclone in 1999 brought a paradigm shift in the disaster
management policy in the state of Odisha. As an immediate aftermath, the government decided
to establish Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to undertak
responsibilities within the state. Over the years, the government has reinforced its commitment
disaster preparedness instead of just a post-disaster relief work. To prevent loss of
lives during natural and man-made disasters the government has formed a
taskforce, known as Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), to rescue people at the time
The ODRAF was created with a vision to enhance the search & rescue efforts in the state. It was
000 under the OSDMA but the authoritative command for deployment is
directed through the Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) because the personnel are part
of the Odisha State Armed Police (OSAP) and Armed Reserve Police (ARP) of District Police.
To ensure proper response to emergency situations, ODRAF has adopted following strategies:
Designed a Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) to inform personnel on how to
function in various situations.
Trained the personnel in basic first aid, on using self contained breathing apparatus, on
rescuing people from heights, operating boats and also in maintaining some basic
equipment like chain saw and inflatable tower light.
Continuous procurement of latest equipment based on feedback by their personnel. The
units have been provided with rescue equipment and also communication devices such
as telephone, fax, VHF and mobile phones. Efforts are being made to set up HAM
The ODRAF focuses on coordination with stakeholders at various levels of ad
the state and also has an interface mechanism with national level disaster management
authorities to improve operational efficiency.
In almost a decade of its existence, the ODRAF has been cited in the media for its effort in
ople during natural and man-made disasters. The ODRAF team is identified with
In an emergency, HAM radio or Amatuer radio is used by OSDMA to communicate with the people in affected
areas. There are 21 HAM radio stations run by volunteers in Orissa.
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
2
The devastation caused by super cyclone in 1999 brought a paradigm shift in the disaster
management policy in the state of Odisha. As an immediate aftermath, the government decided
to establish Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to undertake post-disaster
responsibilities within the state. Over the years, the government has reinforced its commitment
disaster relief work. To prevent loss of
e government has formed a specialised
taskforce, known as Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), to rescue people at the time
The ODRAF was created with a vision to enhance the search & rescue efforts in the state. It was
000 under the OSDMA but the authoritative command for deployment is
directed through the Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) because the personnel are part
of the Odisha State Armed Police (OSAP) and Armed Reserve Police (ARP) of District Police.
To ensure proper response to emergency situations, ODRAF has adopted following strategies:
Designed a Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) to inform personnel on how to
contained breathing apparatus, on
rescuing people from heights, operating boats and also in maintaining some basic
Continuous procurement of latest equipment based on feedback by their personnel. The
units have been provided with rescue equipment and also communication devices such
as telephone, fax, VHF and mobile phones. Efforts are being made to set up HAM1
The ODRAF focuses on coordination with stakeholders at various levels of administration in
the state and also has an interface mechanism with national level disaster management
In almost a decade of its existence, the ODRAF has been cited in the media for its effort in
made disasters. The ODRAF team is identified with
In an emergency, HAM radio or Amatuer radio is used by OSDMA to communicate with the people in affected
TRANSPARENCY AND
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every search & rescue operation in the state. More recently, they were also deployed to rescue
people from inaccessible areas during cholera outbreak.
BACKGROUND
Odisha, on the east coast of India, is highly prone to natural disasters due to its proximity to the
Bay of Bengal. The annual cyclonic disturbances are known to cause heavy rains and floods in
the state. The massive destruction due to super cyclone in October 1999 expo
of the civic authorities in responding to crisis situation during disasters. Even at national level,
India did not have a committed agency to guide the state on relief and reconstruction activities.
Therefore, as an aftermath, the Odish
Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) in December 1999. Till 2008, the OSDMA was
known as Odisha Disaster Mitigation Authority.
the OSDMA created a highly specialised task force known as the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action
Force (ODRAF). The ODRAF was initially envisaged in 2000 but it became functional only in
2002. ODRAF units operate under the authority of OSDMA but the personnel for the force are
selected from the Orissa State Armed Police (OSAP) Battalions and the Armed Police Reserve
of District Police.
At present there are total of 10 ODRAF units which were established in 3 phases:
• In the first phase three units were formed from the OSAP at Cuttack
and Koraput.
• Second Phase included Balasore and Chatrapur
OSDMA
CAPACITY
BUILDING
SEARCH &
RESCUE
ODRAF
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Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
every search & rescue operation in the state. More recently, they were also deployed to rescue
people from inaccessible areas during cholera outbreak.
east coast of India, is highly prone to natural disasters due to its proximity to the
Bay of Bengal. The annual cyclonic disturbances are known to cause heavy rains and floods in
the state. The massive destruction due to super cyclone in October 1999 expo
of the civic authorities in responding to crisis situation during disasters. Even at national level,
India did not have a committed agency to guide the state on relief and reconstruction activities.
Therefore, as an aftermath, the Odisha government envisioned creation of Odisha State
Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) in December 1999. Till 2008, the OSDMA was
known as Odisha Disaster Mitigation Authority.
The OSDMA is responsible for the overall
disaster management in the state. Its
objective is not only to minimize the impact
of natural/man-made disaster but also to
coordinate relief, reconstruction, restoration
efforts. As part of the responsib
is mainly involved in capacity building of
local administration and community for
disaster preparedness; search & rescue
operations; and reconstruction efforts after
disaster.
As part of the Search & Rescue operations,
hly specialised task force known as the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action
Force (ODRAF). The ODRAF was initially envisaged in 2000 but it became functional only in
2002. ODRAF units operate under the authority of OSDMA but the personnel for the force are
ted from the Orissa State Armed Police (OSAP) Battalions and the Armed Police Reserve
At present there are total of 10 ODRAF units which were established in 3 phases:
In the first phase three units were formed from the OSAP at Cuttack
Second Phase included Balasore and Chatrapur
RECONSTR
UCTION
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
3
every search & rescue operation in the state. More recently, they were also deployed to rescue
east coast of India, is highly prone to natural disasters due to its proximity to the
Bay of Bengal. The annual cyclonic disturbances are known to cause heavy rains and floods in
the state. The massive destruction due to super cyclone in October 1999 exposed the limitations
of the civic authorities in responding to crisis situation during disasters. Even at national level,
India did not have a committed agency to guide the state on relief and reconstruction activities.
a government envisioned creation of Odisha State
Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) in December 1999. Till 2008, the OSDMA was
The OSDMA is responsible for the overall
disaster management in the state. Its
objective is not only to minimize the impact
made disaster but also to
coordinate relief, reconstruction, restoration
efforts. As part of the responsibility, OSDMA
is mainly involved in capacity building of
local administration and community for
disaster preparedness; search & rescue
operations; and reconstruction efforts after
As part of the Search & Rescue operations,
hly specialised task force known as the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action
Force (ODRAF). The ODRAF was initially envisaged in 2000 but it became functional only in
2002. ODRAF units operate under the authority of OSDMA but the personnel for the force are
ted from the Orissa State Armed Police (OSAP) Battalions and the Armed Police Reserve
At present there are total of 10 ODRAF units which were established in 3 phases:
In the first phase three units were formed from the OSAP at Cuttack, Jharsuguda
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• In the third phase, from 2009
Bhubaneswar, Paradeep, Bolangir, Rourkela & Baripada.
The ODRAF has been continuously lauded for its rescue operations during crisis situations. In
September 2010, during Cholera outbreak in
ODRAF was sent for search and rescue operations in inaccessible areas
task force was involved in:
• Flood situations in 2008 where the teams successfully rescued more than 5000 people.
• Rescue operations during train accident in Jajpur Road and Mahanandi Bridge in
February 2009.
• Clearing roads at night
March 31, 2009.
OBJECTIVE The ODRAF was created with a vision to mitigate the impact of natural and man
disasters in the state. Its primary objective is to change the focus of disaster mana
post-disaster response to a pre
search and rescue force during floods, building/road accidents, communal riots etc.
WORKING DESIGN Prior to the creation of the ODRAF, the post
disaster search & rescue operations were
jointly carried out by Special Relief
Commissioner, State Fire Services and State
Port Organization. Involvement of three
separate agencies, coupled with the
bureaucratic procedure and lack of proper
equipments, made the rescue operations a
complicated task. As a result, while creating
the ODRAF, the OSDMA has adopted
strategies that simplifies the channel of
communication and ensures coordination
among various stakeholders. The focus is on
following a Standard Operation Procedure
(SOP), providing need-based training
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Public Grievances and Pensions
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Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
In the third phase, from 2009-2010, the ODRAF units were set up in
Bhubaneswar, Paradeep, Bolangir, Rourkela & Baripada.
The ODRAF has been continuously lauded for its rescue operations during crisis situations. In
September 2010, during Cholera outbreak in Koraput-Balangir-Kalahandi districts
ODRAF was sent for search and rescue operations in inaccessible areas. Apart from this, the
Flood situations in 2008 where the teams successfully rescued more than 5000 people.
Rescue operations during train accident in Jajpur Road and Mahanandi Bridge in
Clearing roads at night in the immediate aftermath Rajkanika block of Kendrapara on
The ODRAF was created with a vision to mitigate the impact of natural and man
disasters in the state. Its primary objective is to change the focus of disaster mana
disaster response to a pre-disaster preparedness. The ODRAF functions as an exclusive
search and rescue force during floods, building/road accidents, communal riots etc.
Prior to the creation of the ODRAF, the post
disaster search & rescue operations were
jointly carried out by Special Relief
Commissioner, State Fire Services and State
Port Organization. Involvement of three
separate agencies, coupled with the
procedure and lack of proper
equipments, made the rescue operations a
complicated task. As a result, while creating
the ODRAF, the OSDMA has adopted
strategies that simplifies the channel of
communication and ensures coordination
s. The focus is on
following a Standard Operation Procedure
based training
FIG 2: Locations of ODRAF
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
4
2010, the ODRAF units were set up in
The ODRAF has been continuously lauded for its rescue operations during crisis situations. In
Kalahandi districts, a team from
. Apart from this, the
Flood situations in 2008 where the teams successfully rescued more than 5000 people.
Rescue operations during train accident in Jajpur Road and Mahanandi Bridge in
in the immediate aftermath Rajkanika block of Kendrapara on
The ODRAF was created with a vision to mitigate the impact of natural and man-made
disasters in the state. Its primary objective is to change the focus of disaster management from a
disaster preparedness. The ODRAF functions as an exclusive
search and rescue force during floods, building/road accidents, communal riots etc.
ODRAF units in Odisha
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programs to rescue workers and procuring appropriate equipments to make the disaster
response more efficient.
The ODRAF units are strategically located throug
identified on the basis of disaster vulnerability of the district. The key concern is to be able to
respond to emergency situation within the golden time period of 30
units do not have any geographical/territorial restrictions in terms of area of operation. During
an emergency scenario, the SOP is followed under which the Special Relief Commissioner and
Managing Director, OSDMA is responsible to position the ODRAF personnel at various
locations. However, since the ODRAF personnel are part of the state police force the OSDMA
has to inform the Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) regarding deployment. The
commandant of the ODRAF unit is directed to respond to the crisis within 1 hour of rece
the instruction from IGP.
After each operation the ODRAF units involved in rescue operations are expected to submit
After Action Report (AAR) where the details regarding duration of the rescue operation,
challenges faced during the disaster response
provided. This AAR is then used as a reference for enhancing the organization’s preparedness,
as the feedback on equipment helps OSDMA in identifying requirements for new equipments.
A committee is formed to decide o
going process where there is no limit on number of equipments that can be acquired.
At present, each unit has 92 different types of equipments to handle operations like Water
Rescue, Relief Line Clearance, Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue, Transportation,
Communication, Personal Protective Equipment and Logistics.
be adequately equipped for operations because, during disaster, they are expected to function
independent of the support from the local administration.
The training for ODRAF is considered crucial in achieving the objectives of the organization.
Apart from the daily fitness routine for all personnel, a skill matrix is developed by the
OSDMA to assess skills and competencies at the individual level. On Skill Matrix, every
individual is rated on a scale of 0 to 3 where
0 – No exposure
1 – Exposure
2 – Can undertake the task in guidance with someone
3 – Expert
These ratings are then used to identify the
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Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
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Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
programs to rescue workers and procuring appropriate equipments to make the disaster
The ODRAF units are strategically located throughout Odisha. Locations of the units are
identified on the basis of disaster vulnerability of the district. The key concern is to be able to
respond to emergency situation within the golden time period of 30 – 45 minutes. The ODRAF
graphical/territorial restrictions in terms of area of operation. During
an emergency scenario, the SOP is followed under which the Special Relief Commissioner and
Managing Director, OSDMA is responsible to position the ODRAF personnel at various
. However, since the ODRAF personnel are part of the state police force the OSDMA
has to inform the Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) regarding deployment. The
commandant of the ODRAF unit is directed to respond to the crisis within 1 hour of rece
After each operation the ODRAF units involved in rescue operations are expected to submit
After Action Report (AAR) where the details regarding duration of the rescue operation,
challenges faced during the disaster response, and feedback on the equipment used is
provided. This AAR is then used as a reference for enhancing the organization’s preparedness,
as the feedback on equipment helps OSDMA in identifying requirements for new equipments.
A committee is formed to decide on whether to procure the new equipments or not. It is on
going process where there is no limit on number of equipments that can be acquired.
At present, each unit has 92 different types of equipments to handle operations like Water
arance, Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue, Transportation,
Communication, Personal Protective Equipment and Logistics. It is important for each unit to
be adequately equipped for operations because, during disaster, they are expected to function
ndent of the support from the local administration.
The training for ODRAF is considered crucial in achieving the objectives of the organization.
Apart from the daily fitness routine for all personnel, a skill matrix is developed by the
ills and competencies at the individual level. On Skill Matrix, every
individual is rated on a scale of 0 to 3 where
Can undertake the task in guidance with someone
These ratings are then used to identify the skills of the personnel in following seven areas:
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
5
programs to rescue workers and procuring appropriate equipments to make the disaster
hout Odisha. Locations of the units are
identified on the basis of disaster vulnerability of the district. The key concern is to be able to
45 minutes. The ODRAF
graphical/territorial restrictions in terms of area of operation. During
an emergency scenario, the SOP is followed under which the Special Relief Commissioner and
Managing Director, OSDMA is responsible to position the ODRAF personnel at various
. However, since the ODRAF personnel are part of the state police force the OSDMA
has to inform the Inspector General of Police (Law & Order) regarding deployment. The
commandant of the ODRAF unit is directed to respond to the crisis within 1 hour of receiving
After each operation the ODRAF units involved in rescue operations are expected to submit
After Action Report (AAR) where the details regarding duration of the rescue operation,
, and feedback on the equipment used is
provided. This AAR is then used as a reference for enhancing the organization’s preparedness,
as the feedback on equipment helps OSDMA in identifying requirements for new equipments.
n whether to procure the new equipments or not. It is on-
going process where there is no limit on number of equipments that can be acquired.
At present, each unit has 92 different types of equipments to handle operations like Water
arance, Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue, Transportation,
It is important for each unit to
be adequately equipped for operations because, during disaster, they are expected to function
The training for ODRAF is considered crucial in achieving the objectives of the organization.
Apart from the daily fitness routine for all personnel, a skill matrix is developed by the
ills and competencies at the individual level. On Skill Matrix, every
skills of the personnel in following seven areas:
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ODRAF also undertakes mock drills from time to time to ensure the disaster response
preparedness. The training programs are usually conducted in the beginning of the year as
April- November is considered the emergency season. As per the SOP, the ODRAF equi
and personnel need to be ready during the emergency season and all the rescue equipments are
to be checked thoroughly checked/maintained by the Annual Maintenance Contract holder.
Operational Tasks
Water Rescue
Relief Line Clearance
Collapsed structure search
and rescue
Transportation
Communication
Casualty
Miscellaneous Equipment
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Researched and documented by
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Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
ODRAF also undertakes mock drills from time to time to ensure the disaster response
preparedness. The training programs are usually conducted in the beginning of the year as
November is considered the emergency season. As per the SOP, the ODRAF equi
and personnel need to be ready during the emergency season and all the rescue equipments are
to be checked thoroughly checked/maintained by the Annual Maintenance Contract holder.
Operational Tasks Skills Required
Swimming and Survival Skill,
Preparation of improvised floating aid
and rafts, Operation of Boat with OBM,
Underwater Diving, Deep Water Search
Clearance
Operation of Chain Saw, HYD Combitol,
Cutter, Spreader, Ram Jack, Ton Crane,
Recovery Van
Collapsed structure search
Operation of concrete cutter, RCC cutter,
power shore unit, Rescue tools
equipment accessories, generator sets,
mountaineering equipment, Rope and
Ladder, B.A. Set, Fire fighting
Driving Truck, Troop Carrier,
Ambulance, Fork lift, Tractor and Trallor,
Valid Driving License
Using Walkie Talkies, VHF, HAM Radio,
Satellite
First Aid, Medical First Responder Kit
Miscellaneous Equipment
125 KVA Generator, Sub Mersible Pump,
Flexitent, Inflatable Tower Light,
Emergency Light
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
6
ODRAF also undertakes mock drills from time to time to ensure the disaster response
preparedness. The training programs are usually conducted in the beginning of the year as
November is considered the emergency season. As per the SOP, the ODRAF equipment
and personnel need to be ready during the emergency season and all the rescue equipments are
to be checked thoroughly checked/maintained by the Annual Maintenance Contract holder.
Swimming and Survival Skill,
Preparation of improvised floating aid
and rafts, Operation of Boat with OBM,
Underwater Diving, Deep Water Search
Operation of Chain Saw, HYD Combitol,
Cutter, Spreader, Ram Jack, Ton Crane,
Operation of concrete cutter, RCC cutter,
power shore unit, Rescue tools
equipment accessories, generator sets,
aineering equipment, Rope and
Driving Truck, Troop Carrier,
Ambulance, Fork lift, Tractor and Trallor,
Using Walkie Talkies, VHF, HAM Radio,
Medical First Responder Kit
125 KVA Generator, Sub Mersible Pump,
Flexitent, Inflatable Tower Light,
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The training programs are designed in
the need. So far, trainings have been held at National Institute of Disaster Management (Delhi),
National Industrial Security Academy, Sea Explorer’s Institute and Atal Bihai Vajpayee
Mountaineering Institute.
METHODOLOGY
For the purposes of this best practice documentation, the OneWorld Foundation Team
interviewed General Manager (Mechanical), Mr. Dhaneswar Sahoo and Assistant
Commandant, Mr. Prasanta K Nayak at Odisha State Disaster Management Authority,
Bhubaneswar. In addition, desk research was carried out through publications available on
OSDMA website and Odisha’s Disaster and Revenue Department website.
KEY STAKEHOLDERS
ODRAF is a state agency which functions under OSDMA, however, the personnel for the staff
are from the state police force. The key stakeholders and their roles are as follows:
1. Odisha State Disaster Management Authority
Managing Director, OSDMA.
2. Odisha State Armed Police
Police. The units are formed from the various battalions stationed across the state.
3. Armed Police Reserve of District Police
from Armed Police Reserve and the unit is supervised by Superintendent
Balasore.
LESSONS LEARNED
Over the years, the ODRAF has established itself as a specialised team for search and rescue in
the state. It has played an important role during floods, train mishaps and road accidents.
Newspaper articles indicate that the ODRAF has become equivalent to search & rescue in the
state of Odisha. The reason for success of the ODRAF can be attributed to the highly specialised
function envisioned for the force.
Prior to the ODRAF, there was no specialized agency or dedic
operations and this made the formation of the ODRAF challenging. There was no guidance
available for creating a specialised task force. Initially, the team from the OSDMA traveled to
RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
Public Grievances and Pensions
Researched and documented by
OneWorld Foundation India
Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
The training programs are designed in-house or are held at national institutions depending on
the need. So far, trainings have been held at National Institute of Disaster Management (Delhi),
National Industrial Security Academy, Sea Explorer’s Institute and Atal Bihai Vajpayee
For the purposes of this best practice documentation, the OneWorld Foundation Team
interviewed General Manager (Mechanical), Mr. Dhaneswar Sahoo and Assistant
Commandant, Mr. Prasanta K Nayak at Odisha State Disaster Management Authority,
ddition, desk research was carried out through publications available on
OSDMA website and Odisha’s Disaster and Revenue Department website.
ODRAF is a state agency which functions under OSDMA, however, the personnel for the staff
rom the state police force. The key stakeholders and their roles are as follows:
Odisha State Disaster Management Authority: Overall supervision of ODRAF is under
Managing Director, OSDMA.
Odisha State Armed Police: Personnel for ODRAF are identified fro
Police. The units are formed from the various battalions stationed across the state.
Armed Police Reserve of District Police: The ODRAF unit at Balasore has personnel
from Armed Police Reserve and the unit is supervised by Superintendent
Over the years, the ODRAF has established itself as a specialised team for search and rescue in
the state. It has played an important role during floods, train mishaps and road accidents.
that the ODRAF has become equivalent to search & rescue in the
state of Odisha. The reason for success of the ODRAF can be attributed to the highly specialised
function envisioned for the force.
Prior to the ODRAF, there was no specialized agency or dedicated force for post disaster
operations and this made the formation of the ODRAF challenging. There was no guidance
available for creating a specialised task force. Initially, the team from the OSDMA traveled to
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
7
nstitutions depending on
the need. So far, trainings have been held at National Institute of Disaster Management (Delhi),
National Industrial Security Academy, Sea Explorer’s Institute and Atal Bihai Vajpayee
For the purposes of this best practice documentation, the OneWorld Foundation Team
interviewed General Manager (Mechanical), Mr. Dhaneswar Sahoo and Assistant
Commandant, Mr. Prasanta K Nayak at Odisha State Disaster Management Authority,
ddition, desk research was carried out through publications available on
OSDMA website and Odisha’s Disaster and Revenue Department website.
ODRAF is a state agency which functions under OSDMA, however, the personnel for the staff
rom the state police force. The key stakeholders and their roles are as follows:
: Overall supervision of ODRAF is under
: Personnel for ODRAF are identified from the State Armed
Police. The units are formed from the various battalions stationed across the state.
: The ODRAF unit at Balasore has personnel
from Armed Police Reserve and the unit is supervised by Superintendent of Police
Over the years, the ODRAF has established itself as a specialised team for search and rescue in
the state. It has played an important role during floods, train mishaps and road accidents.
that the ODRAF has become equivalent to search & rescue in the
state of Odisha. The reason for success of the ODRAF can be attributed to the highly specialised
ated force for post disaster
operations and this made the formation of the ODRAF challenging. There was no guidance
available for creating a specialised task force. Initially, the team from the OSDMA traveled to
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states of Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat to unde
the personnel were selected from the police force, the implementation challenges were
essentially regarding identifying proper equipment and training programs for the ODRAF.
The OSDMA has decided to follow a continuous learning approach to improve the
performance of ODRAF personnel. The After Action Report gives every ODRAF unit the
opportunity to participate in the process of the enhancing the capacity of the entire force. Th
report not only provides the feedback on rescue operations but also offers suggestions on the
equipment required in similar operations in future. These submissions are seriously
considered by the OSDMA to ensure availability of appropriate equipments.
The efficient and timely response of the ODRAF operations is also critical to the overall
performance. The flow of command during the emergency is kept simple and direct with the
freedom to use various modes of communications to pass the information to the
absence of bureaucratic approval mechanism ensures immediate deployment of troops within
the stipulated 1 hour window. There are only
three officials responsible for deploying troops:
the MD of OSDMA, the IG (Law & Order) and
Commandant of the ODRAF unit.
At present, the exemplary performance of the
ODRAF and high expectations from citizens has
encouraged government to further strengthen
capacity of the personnel. A “Familiarisation
Programme” is introduced by the government
under which ODRAF personnel visi
prone areas to familiarize themselves with the
surroundings so that in case of crisis they are
aware of the territory.
The creation of the ODRAF is pioneering effort by a state government in India. The National
Disaster Management Authority has
follows a similar organizational structure.
Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Go
Documentation was created by Research Associate,
For further information, please contact
RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
Public Grievances and Pensions
Researched and documented by
OneWorld Foundation India
Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
states of Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat to understand their disaster management program. Since
the personnel were selected from the police force, the implementation challenges were
essentially regarding identifying proper equipment and training programs for the ODRAF.
The OSDMA has decided to follow a continuous learning approach to improve the
performance of ODRAF personnel. The After Action Report gives every ODRAF unit the
opportunity to participate in the process of the enhancing the capacity of the entire force. Th
report not only provides the feedback on rescue operations but also offers suggestions on the
equipment required in similar operations in future. These submissions are seriously
considered by the OSDMA to ensure availability of appropriate equipments.
The efficient and timely response of the ODRAF operations is also critical to the overall
performance. The flow of command during the emergency is kept simple and direct with the
freedom to use various modes of communications to pass the information to the
absence of bureaucratic approval mechanism ensures immediate deployment of troops within
the stipulated 1 hour window. There are only
three officials responsible for deploying troops:
the MD of OSDMA, the IG (Law & Order) and
f the ODRAF unit.
At present, the exemplary performance of the
ODRAF and high expectations from citizens has
encouraged government to further strengthen
capacity of the personnel. A “Familiarisation
Programme” is introduced by the government
under which ODRAF personnel visit disaster
prone areas to familiarize themselves with the
surroundings so that in case of crisis they are
The creation of the ODRAF is pioneering effort by a state government in India. The National
Disaster Management Authority has also created a National Disaster Response Force, which
follows a similar organizational structure.
Research was carried out by the OneWorld Foundation, Governance Knowledge Centre (GKC)
Documentation was created by Research Associate, Aryamala Prasad
r information, please contact Naimur Rahman, Director, OWFI at [email protected]
SRC & MD,
OSDMA
Fig 3: Communication flow during
emergency
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
8
rstand their disaster management program. Since
the personnel were selected from the police force, the implementation challenges were
essentially regarding identifying proper equipment and training programs for the ODRAF.
The OSDMA has decided to follow a continuous learning approach to improve the
performance of ODRAF personnel. The After Action Report gives every ODRAF unit the
opportunity to participate in the process of the enhancing the capacity of the entire force. The
report not only provides the feedback on rescue operations but also offers suggestions on the
equipment required in similar operations in future. These submissions are seriously
considered by the OSDMA to ensure availability of appropriate equipments.
The efficient and timely response of the ODRAF operations is also critical to the overall
performance. The flow of command during the emergency is kept simple and direct with the
freedom to use various modes of communications to pass the information to the next level. The
absence of bureaucratic approval mechanism ensures immediate deployment of troops within
The creation of the ODRAF is pioneering effort by a state government in India. The National
also created a National Disaster Response Force, which
vernance Knowledge Centre (GKC) team.
IG (LAW &
ORDER)
COMMANDANT,
ODRAF
DEPLOYMENT OF
RESCUE WORKERS
ig 3: Communication flow during
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Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Government of India
APPENDIX A:INTERVIEW
1. What was the main motivation behind creating a state level Disaster Rapid Action
Force?
2. Who are the key stakeholders in the project and what their respective roles?
3. Can you please describe the major challenges in pursuing such a large scale and brand
new initiative? For example, in terms of recruiting/training personnel, identifying RAF
unit locations etc.?
4. How has the creation of Disaster Rapid Action Force helped the government in
responding to crisis/natural disasters in Odisha? Can you provide us
end?
5. How was rescue and relief carried out prior to the creation of ODRAF? Who were the
key actors and what was the basic procedure?
6. How does ODRAF unit operate in crisis? How is the procedure effective? For example,
are responsibilities divided along geographical lines for timely response? How is this
different than the procedure followed before?
7. There seems to be a lot of focus on providing training to the personnel. How were these
training programmes designed and decided upon? And
undergo training?
a. Could you please elaborate on Skills Matrix methodology used for assessment of
ODRAF personnel?
8. In terms of relief efforts, what changes have been brought about by the creation of an
exclusive rescue force? For example are efforts more synchronized among various levels
of administration?
9. The rapid action force was created with a vision of improving
of the government. How successful has it been in achieving its objective? Could you
give us some examples?
RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
Public Grievances and Pensions
Researched and documented by
OneWorld Foundation India
Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
NTERVIEW QUESTIONNAIRE What was the main motivation behind creating a state level Disaster Rapid Action
Who are the key stakeholders in the project and what their respective roles?
Can you please describe the major challenges in pursuing such a large scale and brand
ew initiative? For example, in terms of recruiting/training personnel, identifying RAF
How has the creation of Disaster Rapid Action Force helped the government in
responding to crisis/natural disasters in Odisha? Can you provide us
How was rescue and relief carried out prior to the creation of ODRAF? Who were the
key actors and what was the basic procedure?
How does ODRAF unit operate in crisis? How is the procedure effective? For example,
es divided along geographical lines for timely response? How is this
different than the procedure followed before?
There seems to be a lot of focus on providing training to the personnel. How were these
training programmes designed and decided upon? And how often do the personnel
Could you please elaborate on Skills Matrix methodology used for assessment of
ODRAF personnel?
In terms of relief efforts, what changes have been brought about by the creation of an
exclusive rescue force? For example are efforts more synchronized among various levels
The rapid action force was created with a vision of improving pre-
of the government. How successful has it been in achieving its objective? Could you
give us some examples?
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
9
What was the main motivation behind creating a state level Disaster Rapid Action
Who are the key stakeholders in the project and what their respective roles?
Can you please describe the major challenges in pursuing such a large scale and brand
ew initiative? For example, in terms of recruiting/training personnel, identifying RAF
How has the creation of Disaster Rapid Action Force helped the government in
responding to crisis/natural disasters in Odisha? Can you provide us with data to this
How was rescue and relief carried out prior to the creation of ODRAF? Who were the
How does ODRAF unit operate in crisis? How is the procedure effective? For example,
es divided along geographical lines for timely response? How is this
There seems to be a lot of focus on providing training to the personnel. How were these
how often do the personnel
Could you please elaborate on Skills Matrix methodology used for assessment of
In terms of relief efforts, what changes have been brought about by the creation of an
exclusive rescue force? For example are efforts more synchronized among various levels
-disaster preparedness
of the government. How successful has it been in achieving its objective? Could you
TRANSPARENCY AND
Governance Knowledge CentrePromoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Government of India
10. Flood and cyclones have become a common occurrence in Odisha. Has the ODRAF been
able to control the damage caused by th
a. Is there any monitoring mechanism followed by the government to understand
the benefits of ODRAF?
RANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Governance Knowledge Centre Promoted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances
Public Grievances and Pensions
Researched and documented by
OneWorld Foundation India
Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
Flood and cyclones have become a common occurrence in Odisha. Has the ODRAF been
able to control the damage caused by these natural disasters?
Is there any monitoring mechanism followed by the government to understand
the benefits of ODRAF?
CCOUNTABILITY
Case Study Disaster Management
Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force
January 2011
10
Flood and cyclones have become a common occurrence in Odisha. Has the ODRAF been
Is there any monitoring mechanism followed by the government to understand