Udupi: Mock Drill Demonstrates Disaster Management Preparedness
Pics by Inchara Digitals
Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi (RD/CN)
Udupi, Jun 22: Deputy commissioner (DC) Hemalatha P said that the district administration is set to face natural calamities across the district.
DC Hemalatha was speaking after viewing a mock drill to illustrate the disaster management preparedness held in co-ordination with the district fire brigade, district home guards, district police department, district Red Cross, other social welfare and voluntary organizations on Monday June 21.
The demonstration was held at Udyavar rivulet, here. The DC further said that one boat is at the disposal of the district home guards. She added that there are two boats each with the fire brigade and Red Cross which can be pressed into service in case of major floods in the district.
“The assistance of divers employed with Suzlon Energy and Tebma Shipyard in the district will be sought if required. The district-level meeting of officers has already been convened to assess preparedness to face any calamities”, said the DC.
Chief fire officer K Varadarajan said that the department has two boats fitted with 35 HP outboard engines as well as expert drivers and all sorts of machinery at their disposal, which will enable them to effectively undertake any rescue operations in case of house collapses, in clearing the huge trees fallen on highways, and city streets.
“The flooded houses and buildings will be drained of flood water by the fire brigade if the general public seeks help by calling the emergency services”, he added.
Rajeev Shetty, president, district Red Cross, said that they have one mechanical boat and one country boat, an ambulance and trained volunteers to be engaged in case of major floods.
The mock drill was conducted with the help of divers, long-range flash lights, and lifeguards.
Superintendent of police Praveen Madhukar Pawar, Tahsildar V Prasanna, district fire brigade officer B Shivappa Gowda, district home guards commandant Ganapati Bhat, Dr Sharath Kumar of district Red Cross, and officers of Tebma Shipyard were present on the occasion.