SDRF role significant in mitigating impact of disasters: Governor

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today emphasized the critical role of the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) in mitigating the impact of natural disasters.

He was speaking at the concluding ceremony of the Foundation Day celebrations at Raj Bhavan, here today. He lauded the SDRF for its outstanding efforts, societal engagement and contribution towards building resilience in the state.

“India incurs an estimated annual economic loss of Rs 55,000 crore due to disasters. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has helped states to reduce economic losses and save precious lives,” he remarked. Referring to the severe floods and landslides of 2023, the Governor underlined the necessity of a robust disaster management system.

The Governor praised the SDRF since its inception on January 6, 2020 in conducting 148 search and rescue missions, saving 302 lives, safely evacuating over 150 individuals and recovering the bodies of 117 victims. He also emphasized the HP-SDRF's community outreach initiatives aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness.

The Governor honoured nine volunteers for their exemplary contributions during disaster management. It included Capt. NPS Bhullar (Shimla Zone) Sant Nirankari Charitable Foundation (SNCF), Pritpal Singh Mattu, Chairman, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Welfare Society, Harjeet Bhullar, Programme Director, EduCARE Dharamshala, Doers Navneet Yadav (Programme Director), Mahunag Diving Association, Sunder Nagar, Dr Uday Bhushan Sharma, MBBS, Resident AIMSS Chamiyana, Rakesh Kumar and Vijay Kumar from village Rajvan in Mandi and Chappe Ram Negi, Negi's Himalayan Adventure Search and Rescue Team, Bhuntar in Kullu.

Additional Director General of Police Satwant Atwal Trivedi said 2,500 individuals were trained in s Shimla, Mandi, and Dharamshala, and 650 volunteers were registered to assist during disasters.

Mayor, Municipal Corporation, Shimla Surinder Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal and Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Chand Sharma were present on the occasion.