Pics: Meryick D'Silva
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (MD)

Mangaluru, Feb 11: Dakshina Kannada home guards and district fire service department on Wednesday February 11 observed 'National Disaster Reduction Day' at Police Grounds here.

Addressing the gathering, H S Varadarajan, chief fire officer, Mangaluru unit said, "Public should involve themselves in preventing disasters. Children should urge their parents to wear helmets while dropping them to schools. Public should also join hands with the police and other departments in reducing disasters."

Additional deputy commissioner Sadashiva Prabhu said that people wake up to disasters only after they happen. "We should be always prepared. Preventing disasters is not only the duty of the police, but also of the society," he added

Comparing disaster management in India with other countries, police commissioner S Murugan said, "In comparison, we can say India is not that good. The police department, the fire department and the home guards cannot prevent or reduce the impact of each and every disaster that occurs in Mangaluru city. Public also should join hands with us to prevent in this work. If there is no public participation in prevention of disasters, then sometimes it is hard for us to handle the situation. In this regard, students who are gathered here should spread this very important message."

Dr Murali Mohan Chuntaru, district commandant of home guard said that Mangaluru is a highly sensitive place. "We should be cautious at all times. Everyone should wear helmets, it is for your own safety. It is not for the police or for anyone else. Let us not be a burden on society and instead become more responsible citizens."

Home guards second-in-command Mohammed Ismail welcomed the gathering. Former home guards unit officer, platoon commander Meena Malani proposed the vote of thanks. Deputy commandant V Purushothama compered the ceremony.

Prizes were distributed to the students who won the essay and drawing competitions organised by the Dakshina Kannada home guards and district fire service department.

Prior to the ceremony, a rally was held from the Milagres Church premises which culminated at the Police Grounds. Parish priest of Milagres Church Fr Valerian D'Souza flagged off the rally.

Indian Red Cross Society, Mangaluru unit, Manipal School scouts and guides kids, home guards unit, college students and others were also present on the occasion.

District fire service department performed a mock drill where they operated various types of water cannons.