Agency for Social Action (ASA) has been actively working on Community Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) in collaboration with the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) and the Disaster Management Committee – Puri. Since 2000, following its rehabilitation work among the 1999 Super Cyclone-affected people, ASA has focused on preparing communities in Kakatpur for effective disaster management, especially in managing cyclone shelters and responding quickly during emergencies. The programme strengthens District and Satellite Disaster Management Committees through capacity building, planning, and community engagement. Communities are trained to create disaster preparedness plans, establish local warning systems, and develop neighbourhood directories for quick communication. Special attention is given to elders, children, people with disabilities, and families with pets. Members with skills in first aid, medical care, or rescue are encouraged to support the community during emergencies.
ASA also helps communities in property protection, evacuation planning, and identifying safe local shelters. Families are guided to prepare household emergency plans, maintain disaster supply kits, and participate in community-level preparedness. Mock drills, first aid training, and search & rescue exercises are conducted regularly to keep communitie