PNS | DEHRADUN
The commandant of Uttarakhand State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Arpan Yaduvanshi conducted an inspection of the SDRF camp set up in the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on Friday. He informed that the SDRF is primarily deployed at Sangam Nose, the most significant site for ritual bathing by both the Akharas and general devotees. The primary responsibility of SDRF Uttarakhand Police is to facilitate safe bathing for as many pilgrims as possible and provide immediate relief in case of emergencies, as per Yaduvanshi.
He also reviewed the control room, residential barracks and mess facilities before addressing a meeting where he provided crucial directives for ensuring security and effective disaster response during the ongoing religious gathering. He informed that to ensure maximum vigilance, SDRF teams maintain constant communication with the Mela control room to allow for swift action in case of any emergency. The rescue teams are strategically stationed at major bathing ghats, high-risk zones and designated emergency response points. Besides this, a special 24×7 reserve team has also been kept on high alert within the SDRF camp to handle unforeseen situations promptly.
The commandant said that the SDRF has also made special provisions for water rescues with flood rescue teams stationed at critical ghats, equipped with advanced gear to tackle water-related accidents. The SDRF has also installed security barricades and ropes along the bathing ghats to prevent pilgrims from venturing into deep waters. A dedicated assistance centre has also been set up at the Uttarakhand Pavilion to provide immediate help to devotees.
He said that the deployment of maximum personnel has been ensured during major bathing events. Medical camps equipped with essential medicines and first-aid kits have been established along the bathing routes. Yaduvanshi also honoured some SDRF officials and personnel with cash rewards as a token of appreciation for performing their duties diligently with alertness and dedication.
