A call for disaster drills for Indians, Pg 11

Key Highlights:

• The article argues that India must institutionalise disaster preparedness through regular mock drills as extreme weather events become more frequent and intense.
• It highlights that heatwaves, floods, cyclones and cloudbursts now affect large parts of the country, making disaster readiness a public necessity rather than an emergency response.
• The author recommends mandatory disaster drills in schools, colleges, workplaces and government institutions before every major hazard season.
• Community awareness, early warning dissemination and practical emergency training are identified as critical to reducing casualties during disasters.

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Detailed Insights:

• Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, while rapid urbanisation has heightened people's exposure to disaster risks.
• Disaster drills should train citizens in evacuation procedures, emergency communication, first aid, safe shelter identification and basic search-and-rescue skills.
• Schools should integrate disaster education into the curriculum, with age-appropriate training so children learn safety practices from an early age.
• The article notes that although the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued school safety guidelines, implementation of regular drills remains uneven across states.
• Examples from Japan and Taiwan demonstrate how periodic evacuation drills, public awareness and community participation improve resilience during earthquakes, tsunamis and other disasters.
• Strengthening local governance through Gram Panchayats, Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and district authorities can build a culture of preparedness and enable faster emergency response.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): Measures aimed at preventing or minimising disaster risks and reducing vulnerability to hazards.
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): India's apex body responsible for disaster management policies, guidelines and preparedness.
• Mock Drill: A simulated emergency exercise conducted to test preparedness, coordination and response mechanisms.
• Early Warning System: A mechanism that detects hazards in advance and provides timely alerts to minimise loss of life and property.