Disaster preparedness: Emergency stations to be set up in capital

CDA chairman orders regular rescue drills.

ISLAMABAD:

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) will establish emergency and disaster management stations at five locations in the capital to respond swiftly in case of a calamity.

CDA Chairman Nadeem Hassan Asif said these stations would be established in five sectors of the city and would coordinate with each other in case of emergency, while on a visit to the Directorate of Emergency and Disaster Management in Sector H-11.

He directed that emergency-related equipment must be made fully functional and out-of-order equipment must be replaced. The latest machinery, fire extinguishers, expert firefighters and vehicles would be provided, he added.

Asif directed that regular rescue drills be held in high-rise buildings and public offices. He said the directorate should chalk out standard operating procedures for the safety of the public and property.

Referring to the fire incidents in the Margallah Hills, the CDA chairman directed the officers of the Emergency and Disaster Management directorate to liaison with the Environment directorate round the clock during the summer season.

“Rescue training should be made part of the school syllabus, while awareness campaigns about safety measures should be launched,” said the chairman.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 6^th, 2013.