Ladakh preparing local communities for disaster response
Training is a need, necessity
LEH: Ladakh union territory, a high-altitude region located in the northernmost part of India, is prone to various natural disasters like earthquakes, landslides, flash floods, snow avalanches and severe winter storms. Therefore, disaster management training is of utmost importance in Ladakh to minimize the impact of these disasters and save lives.
Disaster management training is an essential aspect of preparing for and responding to natural disasters and other emergencies. Since Ladakh has not only been preparing its UT Disaster Response Force (UTDRF), but the people for any disaster response, and has been at the forefront.
One of the resident trained for the disaster response recently during a training program said that not only important, but disaster management training in Ladakh is a need and necessity as it can be understood from the fact that the region is not only vulnerable to natural disasters but also faces unique challenges due to its remote location and harsh terrain.
“The region is sparsely populated, and many villages are located at high altitudes, making them difficult to access during emergencies,” he said, moreover, added that the extreme cold weather conditions during winter months make rescue and relief operations even more challenging.
The UT administration has been creating awareness among the local population about the potential risks and hazards that they may face during a disaster. This includes simple measures such as identifying safe locations and evacuation routes, storing essential supplies, and developing a communication plan for emergencies, he informed.
Another youngster said that held by the authorities from time to time, disaster response training also helps in building the capacity of the local administration and emergency response teams. This includes training in search and rescue techniques, medical aid, and first aid. “Certainly, it helps in developing an effective communication network and coordination between different agencies involved in disaster management,” he said.
UT administration has been preparing the people for any disaster response, besides the government, along with civil society organizations, is prioritizing disaster management training to ensure that the local population is well prepared to face emergencies and minimize the impact of disasters.
The youngster said that related management training adds to developing a culture of preparedness and resilience among the local population, including encouraging the participation of community members in disaster preparedness and response activities such as mock drills and training exercises.
Moreover, disaster management training in Ladakh has been an ongoing process ensuring that the preparedness and response mechanisms are updated regularly and remain effective. UTDRF so far has trained hundreds of locals in majority of the communities across the UT, and these training camps are still going on across the UT of Ladakh.
