NDRF widens net, ties up with 30 PSUs to tackle disasters

The NDRF, country's elite disaster mitigation combat force, has tied up with about 30 PSUs in order to develop mutual understanding and enhance capabilities to jointly tackle man-made or natural emergencies.

A coordination meeting in this regard was held recently here between the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and prominent Public Sector Undertakings like ONGC, GAIL, Air India and those in the mining and shipping and heavy industries sector.

Over 40 senior officials from these PSUs took part in the maiden meeting held here on October 23.

"In order to solemnise the concept of empowerment and capacity building in the respective field of their expertise and geographical locations, we proposed that the force can really contribute in capacity building by strengthening the skills, competencies and abilities of the workforce of the PSUs.

"The effort is to build a good synergy between both the organisations," NDRF Director General O P Singh told PTI.

He said the first of its kind initiative will ensure that in case of any emergency or disaster the two sides can come together and act as one strong unit and also ensure that in case of small or mid-level exigencies these units can function as first responders till the NDRF arrives on the scene.

The NDRF has proposed to these large establishments that it could extend its skill modules like on tackling nuclear, biological and chemical disasters to train their personnel.

The DG said despite possessing excellent resources and skills, these organizations have been grossly underutilised when it comes to making effective response to disasters of all kinds.

"Once trained, the workforce of the PSUs can effectively act to help the NDRF as force multipliers during big challenges and they can render a relief and rescue task independently when any state government or local administration seeks their help," Singh said.

The two sides exchanged vital contact numbers after the meeting and agreed to initiate joint mock drills and disaster combat exercises in the future.

The force has eleven battalions positioned in various states of the country to undertake relief and rescue operations in the event of any disaster, accident or emergency.