CM Fadnavis Inaugurates High-Tech Disaster Management Hub in Mumbai

April 8, 2025 | Mumbai: The Government of Maharashtra, in partnership with Palladium India, has launched a cutting-edge State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at Mantralaya, Mumbai, marking a pivotal step toward enhancing disaster resilience and response capabilities across the state.

The SEOC was inaugurated on April 8 by Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Eknath Shinde and Shri Ajit Pawar, and Disaster Management Minister Shri Girish Mahajan. The high-level event was attended by senior officials, dignitaries, and representatives from Palladium India.

Empowering Citizens: Aapatti Sahayak App

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar introduced the ‘Aapatti Sahayak’ mobile application, a first-of-its-kind citizen-centric disaster alert tool. The app will allow users to send SOS messages, upload real-time images or videos, and receive early warnings based on their location.

High-Tech Disaster Command Hub

The SEOC boasts a fully equipped 24×7 operations center, enabling real-time coordination with districts and national emergency systems. It’s supported by an array of communication tools like LED video walls, satellite phones, HAM radios, and AV conferencing facilities.

Geo-DSS Unveiled for Risk-Based Planning

Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan inaugurated the Geo-Decision Support System (Geo-DSS). It integrates real-time data from agencies like IMD and NRSC and uses AI/ML to deliver rapid, risk-informed decisions for floods, quakes, forest fires, and other hazards.

A Record Achievement

This state-of-the-art SEOC was completed in just 100 days, showcasing efficient governance, collaborative execution, and visionary leadership in action. It serves as a central hub for all disaster management coordination.

Smart Integration for Rapid Response

The SEOC is integrated with ERSS 112, ensuring seamless communication with police and emergency services. A unified GIS dashboard offers early warning alerts, threat monitoring, and visual response tracking across the state.

District-Level Strengthening Underway

As part of the World Bank-supported Maharashtra Resilience Development Program (MRDP), 34 District Emergency Operations Centers (DEOCs) and three municipal corporations—Kolhapur, Ichalkaranji, and Sangli-Miraj-Kupwad—will be upgraded and integrated with the SEOC through IEMS protocols.

A National Benchmark for Tech-Driven Resilience

Amit Patjoshi, CEO of Palladium India, said, “Maharashtra’s SEOC redefines disaster risk governance in India. This initiative leverages real-time data, AI, and predictive analytics to protect lives and livelihoods more effectively and equitably.”

Capacity Building for Long-Term Impact

To support training and innovation in disaster management, the government will establish the State Institute of Disaster Management (SIDM). SIDM will serve as a knowledge hub for capacity building, policy development, and technical expertise.

The Vision for Resilience

Nalini Sankaranarayanan, Associate Director at Palladium India, shared, “This initiative brings together SEOC, DEOCs, and SIDM as three powerful pillars. It’s a transformative moment for Maharashtra and a bold move toward a resilient, future-ready state.”