Why Is Media Paying Less Attention to Cyclone Fani's Impact in Odisha Than Kerala’s Floods?

In today's digital age, where information spreads rapidly and media outlets have a global reach, it's intriguing to observe the disparity in media coverage for natural disasters. For instance, the media gave extensive coverage to the 2018 Kerala floods, whereas the 2019 cyclone Fani in Odisha received relatively less attention from the media. This article explores the reasons behind this disparity and highlights the impressive disaster management efforts of the Odisha administration.

Motivators of Media Coverage

The media's inclination towards certain types of stories often revolves around factors such as political interest, human interest, and managed versus unmanaged events. A catastrophic disaster that highlights poor management or human failure tends to garner more media attention. Conversely, a well-managed disaster is less likely to receive the same level of coverage because it lacks the inherent drama and emotional impact that captures the public's imagination.

One of the primary reasons for the lack of media attention to Cyclone Fani is the efficient and proactive response by the Odisha administration. Unlike the Mumbai floods, where the municipal corporation's apathy played a significant role, Odisha prepared well in advance. Post-1999 supercyclone, the state has continuously improved its disaster management strategies, ensuring that the impact of Cyclone Fani was mitigated significantly. Due to these preparations, the casualty numbers were lower, and the overall damage was minimal. Therefore, there was insufficient material for sensationalism or dramatic reporting.

Positive Impact of Efficient Management

While the failure of media to highlight significant achievements in disaster management might seem concerning from a public relations perspective, it actually underscores the success of the Odisha administration’s efforts. Efficient management during a disaster often results in fewer casualties and less overall damage, which makes the story less dramatic for media outlets focused on sensationalism.

For example, the UNISDR and UNDRR praised India's zero-casualty policy during the evacuation of approximately 1 million people. The New York Times, Al Jazeera, and other leading international platforms reported on this impressive feat. However, Indian media, preoccupied with TRP-driven programming and election rhetoric, failed to recognize the significance of this event. Cyclone Fani, which was one of the major cyclones in the past decade, resulted in minimal damage due to proactive measures taken by the state administration.

Behind the Scenes of Cyclone Fani's Management

Several key points highlight the commendable efforts of the Odisha administration in managing the impact of Cyclone Fani:

One of the major cyclones in the past decade but with minimal damage! People from coastal areas were shifted two weeks before the storm could hit. Even the UN praised India's zero-casualty policy. 65 teams of the NDRF were deployed a week before the cyclone! Government evacuated 1.1 million people who were at risk from this natural calamity. 3,000 volunteers and 1,000 emergency workers contributed to this evacuation. The entire operation was a remarkable feat of the Odisha administration.

This massive evacuation and the deployment of the NDRF teams weeks in advance demonstrate the state's preparedness and the effective communication that took place between various governmental and non-governmental agencies.

Conclusion

The underreported disaster in Odisha due to Cyclone Fani is a testament to the efficient disaster management systems in place. While it may appear that the media is neglecting the region, it is, in fact, recognizing and applauding the proactive measures taken by the administration. Media should focus more on highlighting such success stories to inspire other regions and demonstrate the importance of preparedness and proactive management in disaster situations.

Moreover, when Team India works together, stunning results are clearly visible. It is essential that the state administration should be given credit for their hard work and preparedness. However, it is important to note that the West Bengal administration missed the opportunity to collaborate with the central government in the cyclone-affected areas, which is disappointing.

Let us continue to contribute towards relief efforts by supporting the Odisha Chief Minister Relief Fund. More than the monetary donations, it is crucial to acknowledge the resilience and response of the administration in managing such disasters efficiently.