Kerala CM Vijayan launches disaster risk warning system KaWaCHaM

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated India’s first fully integrated disaster warning system KaWaCHaM (Kerala Warnings, a Crisis and Hazard Management System) on 21 January 2025. The KaWaCHaM system has been developed under the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project.

The KaWaCHaM system is considered one of the fastest weather alert systems in the world which will enhance rescue and rehabilitation efforts during extreme weather events driven by climate change.

Who developed the KaWaCHaM system?

The KaWaCHaM system has been developed by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) with funding support from the National Disaster Management Authority, the government of India, and the World Bank. It is a part of the National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project.

Feature of the KaWaCHaM system

The KaWaCHaM system is operated by the KSDMA. 

The early warning system will operate at the taluk level and cover all disaster-prone areas of the state.

It has unified Kerala’s entire early warning mechanism into a single framework that disseminates disaster-related knowledge, and warnings, monitors developing crises, and ensures swift responses.

The warnings will cover disasters emanating from the sea, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and extreme heat.

It is an advanced disaster warning system that integrates alerts, sirens, and global weather models to improve early disaster preparedness and public safety.

126 sirens and strobe lights will be installed on tall towers, government buildings, and schools. 

Maximum sirens are in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam with 13 each.

The system includes pre-recorded voice messages and audio alerts regarding cyclone-related warnings.

National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project 

The National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project is a centrally sponsored scheme that is being funded by the World Bank.

The project is being implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the government of India.

Aim of the Project 

The project seeks to install an early warning system, and cyclone mitigation infrastructure and assist the 8 coastal states in project management and monitoring.

Implementation

The project is being implemented in two phases in 8 coastal states of India.

Phase I

Andhra Pradesh & Odisha

Phase II

Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.