Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently unveiled three significant schemes with a combined budget of over Rs 8,000 crore. These initiatives aim to enhance disaster management efforts by focusing on modernizing fire brigade services, mitigating floods in major cities, and preventing landslides in multiple states.
Focus on Modernizing Fire Brigade Services
Addressing a meeting of state and Union Territory disaster management ministers in New Delhi, Shah highlighted the importance of modernizing fire brigade services. To support this goal, an assistance package of around Rs 5,000 crore will be provided to all states. The detailed plan for modernization and expansion will be shared with the concerned authorities.
Mitigating Floods in Major Cities
Shah emphasized the need to mitigate the dangers of floods in urban areas, particularly in seven major cities: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Pune. A fund of Rs 2,500 crore will be disbursed for this purpose. The detailed plan to address flood mitigation in these cities will be communicated to the respective authorities.
Preventing Landslides in Multiple States
In order to address the issue of landslides, the central government will allocate approximately Rs 825 crore to 17 states. The objective is to effectively deal with landslides and minimize their impact. The allocated funds will be utilized for preventive measures in the identified states.
Strengthening Disaster Management for Nuclear Power Stations
Shah highlighted the efforts of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in ensuring the safety of nuclear power stations. The NDMA has visited the states where seven nuclear power stations are being constructed and has provided strict protocols to avert potential disasters. Shah urged the states to prioritize these protocols before the commissioning of power plants.
Continuous Preparedness and Collaboration
While acknowledging the achievements in disaster management, Shah emphasized the need for ongoing preparedness and expansion of efforts. He stressed that disasters are constantly evolving, necessitating a continuous commitment to disaster management. Shah called for collaboration between the central government, states, and chief ministers to strengthen disaster management practices.
Success in Combating COVID-19 as a Model
Shah highlighted the successful coordination between the central government, states, and the people during the COVID-19 pandemic. He cited it as an exemplary model of disaster management where the country united to combat the worst epidemic of the century. Shah emphasized the shift from a relief-oriented approach to a comprehensive strategy involving early warning systems, prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.
Increased Compensation for Farmers and Policy Implementation
Regarding suggestions to enhance compensation for farmers affected by natural disasters, Shah assured a serious examination of the matter. He also urged states to allocate higher budgets for such compensation. Shah further called for the implementation of policies related to fire safety, disaster prevention, thunderstorms and lightning, and cold waves, stressing the need for timely action.
Building Capacity Through Training and Volunteer Programs
Under the ‘Aapda Mitra’ scheme, one lakh youth volunteers are being trained to handle calamities in 350 disaster-prone districts. Shah highlighted the positive outcomes of this initiative, which aims to build a capable workforce for effective disaster management.
In conclusion, these newly announced schemes focus on addressing the dangers of floods, modernizing fire brigade services, preventing landslides, and strengthening disaster management practices in the country. The initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and minimizing the impact of disasters through proactive measures.
