Srinagar, Jun 1 (NVI): The Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA), in collaboration with the Civil Defence Department, Srinagar, on Monday organised a disaster response training programme at Manasbal in Ganderbal district to enhance preparedness and emergency response capabilities among local stakeholders.
The programme was inaugurated by WMDA Chief Executive Officer Dr Ahsanul Haq Chishti in the presence of Divisional Warden Civil Defence Srinagar Rahi Riyaz Ahmed, and Civil Defence instructors Ajaz Ahmad and Showkat Ahmad.
More than 40 participants, including shikarawallas, boat operators, sanitation workers and WMDA field staff, attended the training programme, officials said.
The participants received practical and theoretical training in disaster management, first aid, fire safety, rescue operations and emergency response techniques.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Chishti stressed the importance of equipping tourism-related stakeholders with disaster preparedness skills to assist visitors during emergencies. He appreciated the Civil Defence Department for conducting the programme and emphasised the need for community-based preparedness measures.
He said such initiatives help impart essential life-saving skills to frontline stakeholders who often serve as first responders during emergencies.
Speaking on the occasion, Ahmed highlighted the role of Civil Defence volunteers in protecting lives and property during natural and man-made disasters. He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained through the training and spread awareness within their communities.
The training sessions and practical demonstrations were conducted by Civil Defence instructors Ajaz Ahmad and Showkat Ahmad, who underscored the importance of timely response, teamwork and preparedness in reducing the impact of disasters and emergencies, officials added.(NVI)
