New Delhi, September 10 (Daily Kiran) : The Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has announced plans to establish its own State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to ensure rapid rescue operations during emergencies. This decision follows a tragic incident in the Satya Niketan area of South Delhi, where a paying guest building collapsed, resulting in fatalities.
In an official statement, the government emphasized that the formation of the SDRF aims to strengthen the capital’s ability to effectively manage both natural and man-made disasters. The new force will facilitate the swift deployment of trained personnel to disaster sites, improving relief efforts and minimizing loss of life and property.
Alongside creating the SDRF, the Delhi government will provide specialized training to fire department employees and civil defense volunteers. This initiative is designed to equip local residents with essential skills, enabling them to contribute more effectively during disaster response operations.
A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Gupta took place at the Delhi Secretariat, attended by Chief Secretary Rajiv Verma, NDRF Director General Piyush Anand, and senior officials from various departments. NDRF representatives provided insights into the potential establishment of an SDRF battalion in Delhi, which could comprise up to 1,100 personnel.
This battalion will operate under the state government, ensuring a rapid response to emergencies and executing effective relief operations as directed by authorities. NDRF officials also indicated that they would offer necessary training to SDRF personnel, while also providing specialized equipment tailored to Delhi’s geographical conditions and local needs.
The statement highlighted the importance of quick action during emergencies, asserting that the creation of the SDRF and training for fire department staff and volunteers will significantly enhance the capital’s disaster management capabilities.
Chief Minister Gupta directed officials to compile a list of disaster management tools and share storage details with relevant departments. This will ensure that equipment is readily available in the event of an accident or disaster.
Gupta remarked that establishing the SDRF in Delhi has been a long-standing necessity. Many other states have already formed their own SDRFs. For a densely populated metropolis like Delhi, having its own SDRF is crucial. Previous administrations had not prioritized this essential arrangement, but the current government is committed to reducing reliance on external assistance and strengthening local response capabilities during disasters.
She noted that as Delhi’s physical infrastructure and population continue to grow, the potential for significant damage in the face of natural or man-made disasters underscores the need for robust preparedness and a responsive system.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the goal is not only to act post-disaster but also to ensure that Delhi is well-prepared and equipped to handle such situations beforehand.
Discussion during the meeting also covered the allocation of land for the NDRF battalion’s deployment in Delhi. NDRF officials mentioned that they have land available in the outskirts of the city for personnel stationed there.
The statement concluded by noting the importance of having NDRF presence in Central, North, and South Delhi, given that the city is the national capital and home to significant government institutions.
Leave a Comment