Training for the first batch of Telangana Disaster Response Force next month: CS

A discussion on the proposals for the establishment of the Telangana Disaster Response Force was held on Tuesday (October 15, 2024). Image is used for representational purposes only. | Photo Credit: RAO GN

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari said the training of the first batch of personnel to be inducted into the Telangana State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) should begin in the first week of next month. He held a meeting with senior officials on Tuesday (October 15, 2024) to discuss proposals for the establishment of SDRF in the State.

2,000 personnel in SDRF

Due to recent floods and drowning incidents, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy had ordered officials to form the SDRF using 10 teams of the Fire Department and 10 companies of the Telangana Police Force (TSP), creating a force of approx. 2,000 employees. He also approved the necessary budget for this program.

Following these orders, the Chief Secretary held a meeting with Director General of Police Jitender, Special Chief Secretary Disaster Management Arvind Kumar, and other senior officials.

The procurement of rescue equipment, protective equipment and other equipment has been discussed

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of training workers to respond quickly to warnings during floods, fire hazards, and other disasters. The discussion also included the purchase of vehicles, rescue equipment, protective equipment, and other tools needed for rescue operations. Director General of Fire Services, Nagi Reddy, informed that 10 teams from the Fire Department will be upgraded to SDRF stations with the provision of necessary equipment and training.

1,000 personnel from the TSP Battalion will be trained

Similarly, a total of 1,000 personnel from TSP Battalions (with each company consisting of 100 personnel) will be trained to match the skill level of the Fire Department personnel and will be deployed as a reserve in their areas in times of need and emergency. The services of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) will be used for the training, he added.