Panaji: The directorate of fire and emergency services (DFES) has begun plans to develop and implement a GIS-based disaster management information system (DMIS), envisioned as the state’s centralised digital backbone. According to official documents the department shared, the new web-based platform will streamline real-time incident management, emergency response coordination, resource tracking, and inter-agency collaboration statewide.At its core, the DMIS will use structured GIS layers to categorise critical infrastructure, hazard zones, evacuation routes, and resource distribution points. A secure database will be integrated into an online portal hosted on the existing DFES website, enabling authorised fire department personnel to track incidents and resources dynamically on an interactive map.The platform will include baseline mapping layers such as piped gas networks, major hazardous installations handling chemicals under applicable safety rules, partner agencies, law enforcement facilities, and water resource infrastructure, including reservoirs and pumping stations. It will also map cyclone and flood shelters, civil supplies storage godowns, and fire stations, along with station-level details on equipment and personnel strength to help optimise response times, a department official said.In addition, the system will support survey-intensive layers, including flood inundation zones and location-tagged records of trained community emergency volunteers — male volunteers under the Aapda Mitra initiative and female volunteers registered through the Aapda Sakhi programme. Educational institutions, heavy machinery inventories (such as cranes and excavators), healthcare facilities, local panchayat offices, and tree-cutting response teams will also be geo-tagged within the network.To improve situational awareness during emergencies, the DMIS will integrate real-time data feeds and tracking tools, including dam water levels, river gauge station readings, geo-tagged tracking of active fire and rescue equipment, and live incident and emergency call tracking. Key software features will include role-based access control, automated data validation, a geo-referenced contact directory with click-to-call functionality, mobile-responsive access, and interoperability support for standard GIS data formats.To ensure smooth adoption, DFES will conduct hands-on training for officials, followed by a three-month post-training handholding support period.GFX: BOOST TO COORDINATION* Web-based disaster management information system to track emergencies* Centralised digital backbone for real-time incident management, resource tracking, and emergency coordination* Multi-layer interactive geographic information system mapping, real-time emergency call tracking, and dam/river level monitoring integrations* Includes comprehensive department training, a 3-month handholding phase, and a 3-year maintenance contract
