Inauguration Ceremony of the Modernized State Emergency Operations Center (Mantralay Control Room)

Revenue and Forest Department
(Disaster Management, Relief, and Rehabilitation)

Maharashtra has taken a significant step forward in disaster management by strengthening institutions through a three-fold strategy, including the inauguration of the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), modernization of District Emergency Operations Centers (DEOC), and Cabinet approval for the State Institute of Disaster Management (SIDM).

On April 8, 2025, the state has made a historic and decisive advancement in the field of disaster management, establishing a comprehensive, integrated, and effective management structure through this institutional strengthening.

The modernized State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) was inaugurated by the Honourable Chief Minister, Shri. Devendra Fadnavis.

In addition, under the World Bank-supported Maharashtra Resilience Development Program, Chief Minister Shri. Devendra Fadnavis officially announced the modernization of District Emergency Operations Centers (DEOC) in 34 districts (excluding Mumbai City and Mumbai Suburbs) and three municipal corporations (Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad, Kolhapur, and Ichalkaranji). This initiative includes an Integrated Emergency Management System (IEMS), Disaster Resilience Network, Audio-Visual facilities, and Information Communication Technology (ICT) components. These facilities will ensure seamless connectivity between district and state emergency operations centers.
The Cabinet also approved a proposal of INR 184 Crores from the state fund for the construction of the State Institute of Disaster Management (SIDM) building in Nagpur. SIDM will function as a center for disaster management training for all stakeholders in the state and a research hub on various disaster-related topics.

During this ceremony, the Honourable Deputy Chief Minister Shri. Eknath Shinde inaugurated the new website of the State Disaster Management Authority, while the Honourable Deputy Chief Minister Shri. Ajit Pawar inaugurated the ‘Aapatti Sahayak’ mobile app, developed specifically for citizens. Additionally, Shri. Girish Mahajan, Minister for Disaster Management, inaugurated the Geo-DSS system. This historic event was attended by Honourable Minister of State (Relief and Rehabilitation), Adv. Ashish Jaiswal, Chief Secretary Smt. Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary (Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation) Dr. Sonia Sethi, and Director of Disaster Management Department Shri. Satish Kumar Khadke among other dignitaries.

The modernization of the State Emergency Operations Center is not merely a technological upgrade; it lays a strong foundation for safety, coordination, and operational efficiency throughout Maharashtra, addressing future disaster risks. This center has been upgraded in line with international and national guidelines and includes advanced Information Communication Technology (ICT) systems.
This new, modernized operations center incorporates high-capacity audio-visual conferencing systems, bezel-free video walls, data servers, high-capacity computers, multi-channel call center software solutions, SATPHONE, Ham Radio, and VHF wireless sets, facilitating rapid and coordinated response among state, district, and other relevant entities.

The Geo-DSS system automates the ‘Change Detection’ process through satellite-based remote sensing and imagery processing technology, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). This technology provides near-real-time situational awareness, visual mapping of damages, and rapid assessment of disaster impacts, significantly improving the efficiency and timeliness of rescue and relief operations.

The ‘Aapatti Sahayak’ mobile app is an innovative tool strengthening the connection between citizens and administration. It features facilities such as SOS-based immediate disaster reporting, photo/video uploading, and location-based alerts, serving as an effective medium for direct citizen engagement.

The newly developed website of the State Disaster Management Authority will provide disaster management policies, guidelines, activities, and critical information at the fingertips of relevant officials and citizens alike. This information-based system will notably enhance administrative decision-making capabilities and response times.

These initiatives collectively represent Maharashtra’s solid steps towards becoming a safer and more resilient state. Through effective information management, trained human resources, and coordinated response mechanisms, Maharashtra is poised to become better equipped for future disasters, minimizing loss of life and property.