SHIMLA: In response to the cataclysmic damage done to Human life and property by the recent series of Rains, cloud bursts and floods in Himachal Pradesh, the state government has decided to set up a State Institute for Disaster Management to arm State against disaster in the near future.
Chairing the meeting of the 20th meeting of the HP State Executive Committee (SEC) today, chief secretary Prabodh Saxena addressed critical concerns about disaster vulnerabilities in Himachal Pradesh.
They discussed the susceptibility of various parts of the state to different forms of disasters and called for devising proactive measures for prevention and mitigation.
With a strong emphasis on enhancing coordinated responses during life-threatening situations, the Chief Secretary stressed the need for a comprehensive and scientific solution to safeguard against floods, landslides, earthquakes, and other hazards.
A pressing memorandum highlighting damages and losses amounting to Rs. 6746.93 crore was submitted to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on August 10, seeking crucial aid from the central government.
The Disaster Management Cell, further, requested assistance from the National Disaster Management Authority for conducting Post Disaster Needs Assessment, which would pave the way for reconstruction and rehabilitation initiatives.
Central to the discussions was the urgency of earthquake retrofitting for critical infrastructures, government schools, and community health centers. Plans for a pilot project in select districts were outlined.
Several key issues also came under scrutiny, including fortifying the Disaster Management Cell, District Disaster Management Authorities, Fire Services, Home Guards, and Civil Defence. The meeting addressed the adoption and strict enforcement of Model Building Bye Laws across Urban Local Bodies, promoting secure construction practices in rural areas, and establishing a Hazard Safety Cell to oversee significant projects and ensure safe construction practices.
Regulations pertaining to construction near rivers, streams, and steep slopes were also deliberated upon.
The establishment of a State Institute of Disaster Management garnered attention as a means to enhance training and capacity building. Furthermore, the Chief Secretary underscored the necessity of bolstering the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) by equipping them with advanced technology and gear.
The process of establishing Headquarters and Regional Response Centres of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was set in motion, aligned with the Ministry of Home Affairs' guidelines.
Prominent attendees included DGP Sanjay Kundu, Financial Commissioner (Revenue) Onkar Chand Sharma, Secretary (Health) M. Sudha Devi, Secretary (Agriculture) Rakesh Kanwar, Engineer-in-Chief (PWD) Ajay Gupta, Director-cum-Special Secretary (Revenue-DM) D.C. Rana, and other senior officials.
The state's effort to confront and overcome disaster vulnerabilities is a starting point but it remains to be seen how soon the officials go about it in the ground as all meetings end as Fiasco sooner than later as has been happening in the state over the years.
