Panchayats in Kozhikode gear up to tackle rain-related calamities
The Hindu
Formation of emergency response teams under way in 70 local bodies
The formation of emergency response teams (ERTs) comprising local volunteers is under way in 70 grama panchayats in Kozhikode as part of steps being taken to mitigate calamities in the monsoon season. The panchayats that have such village-level squads will improve their strength by adding more members from various wards. Complying with the guidelines issued by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), only trained youths will be selected to the teams. During natural calamities, the ERT members will act as first respondents in their villages and extend their service to the main rescue wings such as the National Disaster Response Force or the Fire and Rescue Service units. According to DDMA officials, each ERT will have four specialised wings that will manage the issuing of timely warnings, rescue operation, shelter preparation, and life support. They will work with other civil defence forces formed by various government departments. The ward-level ERTs will have at least 25 trained volunteers, they add.More Related News