Himachal looks to find scientific solutions to reduce damage in high-risk zones
Himachal looks to find scientific solutions to reduce damage in high-risk zones
Shimla
The Himachal Pradesh government will examine the vulnerabilities of various areas in natural disasters and is focusing on finding permanent scientific solutions to reduce damages in the future.
The resolve to find solutions to mitigate disasters was taken in the State Executive Committee meeting under Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena on Friday.
The SEC also discussed strengthening the coordinated response in the event of any life-threatening disaster or situation.
“Disaster vulnerabilities in HP must be thoroughly assessed and a permanent scientific solution must be chalked out for flood protection, landslides, earthquakes and other vulnerabilities.
As police forces being the first responders, they must be trained for prompt and effective response,” Saxena said.
He said the state had submitted damage report worth Rs 6,746.93 crore to the Indian government to seek assistance on August 10.
Besides, the Disaster Management Cell has also requested the NDMA to assist in carrying out Post Disaster Needs Assessment.
This was to seek assistance from the Central government for reconstruction and rehabilitation activities.
The SEC stressed the need for earthquake retrofitting of selective critical infrastructures, government schools and community health centres.
This will be done under a pilot project in some districts.
It also called for strengthening of Disaster Management Cell, DDMAs, Fire Services, Home Guards and Civil Defence.
The SEC has called for the adoption of Model Building Bye-Laws in the state and their strict enforcement to promote safe construction practices in rural areas.
In addition, suggestions have been made for setting up of Hazard Safety Cell to appraise large projects and promote safe construction practices.
The cell will also be responsible for regulating construction near rivers/streams and high slopes.
