The Delhi government has approved the establishment of a 1,050-member State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to enhance its capability to respond to both natural and man-made disasters in the national capital. Officials informed the news agency PTI that this initiative aims to bolster emergency response mechanisms in the region.

The SDRF will consist of 18 companies, with one company allocated to each of the 13 districts in Delhi, alongside five reserve units. This decision was made during a recent Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, highlighting the urgency for a dedicated disaster response team in the city.

Currently, Delhi lacks a specialised disaster response force, which has hindered timely action during emergencies such as fires, building collapses, and significant accidents. Each company within the force will comprise approximately 50 to 55 rescue and relief personnel, primarily recruited from central paramilitary forces, with some positions being filled through direct recruitment.

Leadership and Implementation Plan

The newly formed force will be led by a police officer of inspector general rank, ensuring a structured command within the unit. Following the Cabinet’s approval, the proposal will be submitted to Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu for final endorsement. Once approved, a formal notification will be issued to commence the establishment of the SDRF.

Officials have noted that the need for a dedicated disaster response force has been apparent for several years, particularly given Delhi’s status as the national capital and its vulnerability to various disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and building collapses. A recent incident in Satya Niketan, where a building collapse resulted in seven fatalities, has further underscored this necessity.

In preparation for the establishment of the SDRF, Chief Minister Gupta met with senior officers from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to discuss the formation of a modern disaster response team tailored to the specific needs of Delhi. The NDRF is expected to provide training to the SDRF personnel and assist in procuring specialised equipment suitable for the unique geographical and local conditions of the capital.

Training and Equipment Strategy

The Chief Minister has also instructed officials to compile and share details regarding disaster management equipment and its storage locations with relevant departments. This initiative aims to ensure that necessary equipment is readily available during emergencies, thus facilitating prompt response during disasters.

In addition to establishing the SDRF, the Delhi government plans to offer specialised training to personnel in the fire department and Civil Defence volunteers. This initiative is designed to better prepare local responders to assist in rescue and relief operations during large-scale disasters, thereby enhancing the overall emergency response framework in the city.

Once the Lieutenant Governor approves the proposal and the formal notification is issued, the Delhi government intends to implement the establishment of the 1,050-member force in phases. The training provided by the NDRF, along with the acquisition of specialised equipment and the training of local personnel, will be crucial to the successful deployment of the SDRF in the coming months.

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