State aims to cut disaster vulnerability by 75% by 2030
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has launched an ambitious plan to reduce the state’s vulnerability to natural disasters by up to 75% by 2030. The Karnataka State Disaster Risk Reduction roadmap 2025–2030, released recently by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, outlines short, medium, and long-term measures across 38 state departments.
Education sector to undergo safety audits and vulnerability mapping
The education sector has been identified as a key area of focus, as children are among the most affected by natural hazards, facing both physical and mental trauma. During droughts, school dropout rates increase, especially among girls, often pushing them into child labour or early marriages. Floods force schools to shut temporarily, exposing children to waterborne diseases and other hazards.
To address these challenges, the disaster management department has directed the education department to map the vulnerability of all schools, colleges, and universities, both government and private. The initiative also involves preparing an inventory database covering physical infrastructure and student safety, and conducting comprehensive safety audits of all educational institutions to reduce dropout rates and protect children during emergencies.
Agriculture sector to promote climate-resilient farming
The agriculture sector, another critical area, will focus on promoting climate-resilient farming practices. The roadmap calls for the establishment of agriculture cells at district and taluk levels to support farmers in adopting practices that withstand natural disasters and climate change. Large-scale hazard mapping, characterization of risk factors including soil type and land degradation, and dissemination of best practices are planned to ensure sustainable agriculture and minimize losses during extreme weather events.
Other departments to enhance disaster preparedness
Several other departments have also been tasked with strengthening disaster readiness. The Home Department is required to enhance capabilities for emergency response, including equipping rescue teams with specialised tools such as high-end concrete cutters and trained dogs for search and rescue operations during events like melas or religious congregations.
The Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) department will focus on developing policies to insure public assets and critical infrastructure. Overall, the roadmap represents a coordinated effort across departments to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience throughout Karnataka.