Himachal Pradesh Prepares Civil Defence Heroes Amid Rising Disasters

Himachal Pradesh is gearing up to tackle frequent disasters by training over 70,000 people in civil defense. Declared a 'Civil Defense Town' by the Union government, this initiative aims to enhance preparedness and quick response, especially amidst recurring natural calamities.

Himachal Pradesh, often besieged by natural disasters, is set to up its resilience game by training more than 70,000 citizens in civil defense. This move comes after the Union government designated the entire state as a 'Civil Defense Town', mandating the initiative.

The Director of Disaster Management, D C Rana, revealed the strategic plan to equip at least one per cent of the state's population with essential skills to assist in times of crisis. These efforts are particularly significant given the annual calamities that cause substantial losses and require prompt intervention.

To expedite relief operations, 28,000 volunteers in 3600 panchayats have already received basic training. An additional 1500 'Disaster Friends' have completed advanced preparation, with plans to train 5,000 more for efficient relief and rescue missions. The recent monsoon has proven deadly, leaving 34 deceased and 40 missing.

(With inputs from agencies.)