Gujarat's SEOC emerges as 24/7 command hub for disaster response
Gandhinagar, July 31
The State Emergency Operations Centre in Gandhinagar has emerged as Gujarat's primary 24/7 command and control hub for disaster response, having sent over 286.4 crore SMS alerts to citizens through the advanced 'SACHET' system to date. Functioning as an invisible shield, the SEOC mobilises the entire state administrative machinery within minutes of a natural calamity or unforeseen emergency to ensure public safety.
According to a press release issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the devastating Kutch earthquake of 2001 taught Gujarat valuable lessons in disaster management. Building on that experience and using modern technology, the Government of Gujarat has developed a strong disaster management system. At the centre of this system is the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), which functions 24x7 as the Central Command and Control Hub during natural and man-made disasters, including earthquakes, cyclones, and heavy rainfall. Through real-time coordination, timely alerts, and quick relief and rescue operations, it helps ensure the safety of citizens across the state.
Maintaining communication during emergencies is one of the biggest challenges. To address this, the SEOC uses multiple communication channels, including the GSWAN hotline, satellite phones, landlines, e-mail, WhatsApp, and social media. During the monsoon season, it also makes special use of police wireless sets and Ham Radio as alternative communication systems.
In addition, the advanced "Sachet Portal" has been developed to provide timely alerts to citizens. Through this portal, Mass SMS alerts are sent to people in affected areas. So far, more than 286.4 crore SMS alerts have been sent through this system. Moreover, the Centre has successfully safeguarded citizens through access by more than 6 crore mobile app users and over 5.3 lakh web browser users.
This Centre, functioning under Gujarat's disaster management framework, is a well-structured system developed to ensure seamless coordination across the state, district, and taluka levels through an advanced network. At present, 33 District Emergency Operations Centres (DEOCs), 5 Emergency Response Centres, and 248 Taluka Emergency Operations Centres are functioning continuously. With the support of Gujarat State Wide Area Network (GSWAN) connectivity and a well-established 24x7 monitoring mechanism, the Centre ensures disaster preparedness before emergencies and enables rapid response during disasters. All these centres function continuously under the guidance of the Relief Commissioner and the supervision of the Director of Relief.
To enable every citizen to receive immediate assistance during emergencies, dedicated 24-hour helpline numbers have been made available. Any citizen of the state can seek help by contacting the state-level helpline numbers 51900 or 1070, and the district-level toll-free helpline number 1077. The Government of Gujarat's well-equipped State Emergency Operations Centre stands as a strong shield of protection for citizens against every disaster.
Depending on the nature and severity of a disaster, the SEOC maintains close coordination with specialised technical agencies. During earthquakes or seismic activities, it coordinates with the Institute of Seismological Research (ISR). During floods and cyclones, it works in real time with the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Irrigation Department, and ISRO. In the event of a possible tsunami, coordinated operations are carried out with the IMD, INCOIS, and ISR.
In addition, for drought and heatwave situations, coordination is maintained with the Agriculture Department; for epidemic control, with the Health and Family Welfare Department; for chemical accidents, with the Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health (DISH) and the Labour and Employment Department; and for fire incidents, with the Fire and Emergency Services. Simultaneously, to ensure swift relief and rescue operations, 17 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and 32 teams of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are kept on constant standby. Whenever required, assistance from the Army, Air Force, and Navy is also mobilised.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good initiative, but let's be honest - during the recent floods in Saurashtra, many villages didn't receive alerts on time. Infrastructure is great on paper, but ground reality needs improvement. Hope the government works on last-mile connectivity rather than just issuing press releases.
As someone working in disaster management, I can vouch for the SEOC's capabilities. The coordination with ISRO and IMD during Cyclone Biparjoy was exemplary. We evacuated over 100,000 people in record time! But yes, continuous improvement is needed. Proud of Gujarat's progress 🇮🇳
Living in the US but always impressed by how India is leveraging technology for disaster preparedness. 286 crore SMS alerts is no small feat! The multi-channel approach including satellite phones and Ham radio shows serious planning. Hope other states learn from Gujarat's model.
The 2001 earthquake truly transformed Gujarat's approach - from tragedy to resilience. Having experienced the Bhuj earthquake, I appreciate the psychological impact of timely alerts. It gives people confidence knowing someone is watching 24/7. But we need more awareness about helpline numbers like 1070 - many citizens still don't know these exist!
Impressive infrastructure! The integration of NDRF, SDRF, and even Army/Air Force support shows a comprehensive approach. Reminds me of FEMA's operations but adapted well for India's unique challenges. The monsoon coordination between multiple agencies is particularly smart.
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