DC launches panchayat emergency response scheme in Nahan

District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Chairperson and Sirmaur Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma today launched the Panchayat Emergency Response Centre (PERC) scheme aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities at the grassroots level. The launch event was held in Nahan under the state-wide Samarth 2025 initiative.

On this occasion, emergency response kits were distributed to representatives from ten selected gram panchayats — Bakras, Jarwa Junaili, Vasni, Sataun, Shivpur, Ludhiana, Nohra Dhar, Kotla Bangi, Karganu and Kaulawala Bhud. The kits, provided by the DDMA, will be utilised by the respective panchayats in coordination with the local administration during emergencies and disasters.

The DC stated that the PERC scheme is an integral component of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Local Coordination Strengthening programme under Samarth 2025. She said that all 259 gram panchayats in Sirmaur district would be equipped with Panchayat Emergency Response Centres and Emergency Response Kits (ERKs). Each kit contains essential rescue and relief equipment such as ropes, helmets, stretchers, searchlights, gloves, rain suits, ladders, first-aid kits and other necessary tools to support local disaster response efforts.

In addition, 21 Emergency Response Centres will be established at the sub-divisional, tehsil and sub-tehsil levels — covering seven sub-divisions, nine tehsils and five sub-tehsils. The initiative aims to strengthen local disaster management systems, ensuring swift and coordinated action during emergencies to minimise loss of life and property.

The launch event was attended by DDMA representatives Anita Thakur (Training and Capacity Building Coordinator), Arvind Chauhan (Documentation Coordinator) and staff of the District Emergency Operations Centre.

Verma emphasised that empowering local governance institutions with training and essential equipment was key to building a disaster-resilient Sirmaur district.