Crying need for green-corridor during disasters: NDRF chief
From January 2017 to July 2018, NDRF conducted 732 rescue operations across the country
NEW DELHI: In the recent building collapse incident in Ghaziabad, the team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) walked almost a kilometre to the accident site holding equipment in their hands before they could start the rescue operation. The important time that the disaster response team could have utilised in the rescue operation was wasted because of traffic snarls, unwanted crowd and narrow lanes which slowed down their movement, forcing them to leave their vehicle. Taking note of such situations, the force wants local authorities to provide them with a greencorridor as it will save precious time that can save many lives. Talking to the
the Director General (DG) of NDRF, Sanjay Kumar, stated that at the time of rescue the local authorities should provide green corridor as it will help the disaster response force to reach the site without any delay. “Timely arrival of NDRF would help in saving
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several lives which are trapped under the debris. The authorities should provide a smooth and unhindered passage,” said Sanjay Kumar.
From January 2017 to July 2018, NDRF conducted 732 rescue operations across the country, in which over a lakh people were evacuated to safety, 4,168 persons were rescued and 613 bodies were retrieved. During the same period, the force has carried out over 40 rescue operations across Delhi-ncr.
Another NDRF official said that the delay in reaching the spot risks several lives which are trapped in dangerous situations. The traffic snarls always slow down their movements and sometimes the crowd near the spot makes it difficult to conduct the operation quickly.
“We do not blame any government agencies. They always cooperate with us at the time of our rescue operation and provide us with necessary help,” said the officer. Explaining how the team prepares for the operation, the officer added that in 30 minutes after receiving the information the team leaves their base after checking the equipment.
“In the vehicle itself, the initial rescue plan is made. Despite all odds, the team has rescued several lives,” he said, adding that they always remain in an alert mode. NDRF has 12 battalions across the country. Each battalion has a strength of 1,149 personnel. Presently, the force has 168 canines.