KOCHI: In the forseeable future, Kochi Corporation could well have its own ‘Disaster Management System’ (DMS) modelled on the lines of the District Disaster Management Authority set up to tackle industrial or natural calamities.
The civic body’s plans in this regard coalesced in the wake of major mishaps like the ammonia leak and the boat tragedy here, which had triggered panic among the city dwellers.
“When the ammonia leak occurred near Tripunithura, panic had gripped the locals for over six hours. Majority of the people were ignorant about the rescue activities that had to be undertaken in such situations. By setting up a disaster management team we will impart training to the people on kind of the safety measures to be adopted in an emergency situation.
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This will also be helpful to the police, fire and rescue team engaged in the relief and rescue operations. We had planned to set up the same but it got delayed. Now, the discussions in this regard have picked up steam,” said Mayor Soumini Jain.
Besides, the Corporation has plans to draw up a project report with help from the Disaster Management Authority.
“After the project report is ready we will chart out the action plan. We are planning to implement the project by associating with the residents’ associations, gramasabhas and schools. The training that we are planning to impart will also help to contain the domestic accidents like gas leak,” the Mayor added.
Meanwhile, the District Disaster Management Authority also had plans to rope in Kudumbashree Mission as part of a contingency project for coordinating the rescue activities in the event of industrial disasters and natural calamities.
As part of the initiative, training in basic life support, chemical hazards, first aid and the aspects of fire and safety will be imparted to Kudumbashree workers.