KULGAM, OCTOBER 18: A three day disaster management programme today began at Waltengo, a remote village in Kund valley of Kulgam district.
50 volunteers are being imparted comprehensive training during the programme organised by District Disaster Management Authority Kulgam under the aegis of State Disaster Management Authority.
A team of experts from SDRF and Civil Defence have been roped in to impart training to the volunteers in first aid, firefighting, search and rescue. Special focus was also given on preparedness measures for earthquake, flood management and avalanche rescue operations and mitigation of after effects of natural disasters. It is pertinent to mention that Waltengu Nad is prone to avalanches particularly during winters and a massive avalanche had struck the area in January 2005, resulting in numerous deaths.
In his key note address, Director Disaster Management Aamir Ali highlighted the significance of training locals in disaster management techniques, saying that community volunteers play the most important role in responding to the eventuality and such initiatives are instrumental in reducing the impact of disasters.
Additional deputy commissioner, Ghulam Hassan Sheikh called for developing capabilities among the inhabitants of areas prone to disasters. He said locally available human resource is the most credible intervention in the initial phase of rescue operations during the incidence of disasters and are the first responders.
