New Delhi: Nearly 60 personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) will be deployed in each of Delhi’s 13 districts and about 300 will stand by for rapid mobilisation in emergencies as chief minister Rekha Gupta’s cabinet has approved the setting up of a 1,050-strong State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).The move comes against the backdrop of challenges Delhi faces when disaster strikes.The force will be trained to respond to emergencies such as building collapses, urban flooding, earthquakes and other disasters that need specialised search-and-rescue operations, evacuation of stranded people and the use of advanced rescue equipment.Congested roads, narrow lanes, densely populated neighbourhoods and unauthorised construction often hamper access for the rescue teams. Such situations require teams to maximise the chances of saving lives and minimise damage.“The disaster response personnel will be equipped with advanced equipment. After the cabinet’s approval, the process for the setting up of the force has been set in motion,” an official said.Of the force’s total strength of 1,050, 90% personnel will be drawn from CAPF on deputation, while 10% will be recruited directly. The recruitment rules for it will be framed. “We are targeting deployment of the teams in a month. They will be provided accommodation at the district level,” the official said.The equipment provided to the forces may include hydraulic tools to cut through or move heavy debris to reach trapped victims.Life detectors can assist in locating survivors beneath rubble, while breathing apparatus will allow the personnel to operate in smoke-filled or oxygen-deficient environments.Inflatable boats can support rescue and evacuation during flooding. Equipment for collapsed-structure rescue will also be provided. This can help the personnel operate around unstable structures, locate survivors and extract them without triggering further collapse.“They will be used under the orders of the district magistrates or competent district-level authorities. A force with district-level deployment could help reduce the time taken to mobilise trained personnel, particularly in areas where access is difficult. The personnel will work in coordination with agencies such as Delhi Fire Services, police and other emergency responders,” the official said.A senior IPS officer will head the force and will coordinate with govt and security agencies. Periodic training will be provided to SDRF personnel to ensure operational readiness.The temporary headquarters will be arranged for in the short term. Land at Alipur may be provided for a permanent headquarters.The force will function under the supervision of the revenue department.Delhi also has the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the apex body responsible for planning, coordination and preparedness against disasters.The SDRF, in contrast, will be a force for on-ground operations such as search and rescue, evacuation and emergency response.
