Twenty-two search and rescue teams on Saturday will take up their position at various locations in disaster-prone areas in different districts. Completing the preparation for deployment of the teams, Disaster Mitigation and Management Centre (DMMC) directed the officials to reach the location of their deployment.
The teams will be deployed in Badrinath, Hanuman Chatti, Bhatwari, Uttarkashi, Dharasu, Chham lambgaon, Kaudiyala, Kirtinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnprayag, Chamoli, Helang, Jakholi, Kund, Khairana, Almora, Kapkot, Munsyari, Champawat and Dharchula.
DMMC executive director Piyoosh Rautela said, “Search and Rescue teams would reach their locations so that they could respond immediately in case any disaster takes place.” Deployment of the teams in 10 days ahead of likely onset of the monsoon will give them time to have an idea about the area of their deployment.
Taking a cue from last year’s havoc caused in Uttarkashi district by heavy rains, DMMC is takings steps in advance to ensure prompt response to mitigate the disaster if there is any. This year the department is also planning to rope in some canines, especially trained in search and rescue, in tough terrains.