DGP moots five-pillar response plan to achieve ‘zero loss of life’ in flood management

TNN

Lucknow: Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna on Friday set a “zero loss of life” target for floods and other water-related incidents, saying the state is pursuing a technology-driven, multi-agency approach built on prevention, preparedness and rapid response.

Speaking at a national seminar on ‘Flood and Flood-Related Disaster Management’ at Surya Auditorium in Lucknow Cantonment, Krishna said recurring floods affect millions every year and require coordinated action across departments and states.

The seminar was jointly organised by the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority and Central Command, with participation from central and state agencies, the armed forces and disaster management institutions.

Among those present were Water Resources and Flood Control minister Swatantra Dev Singh, UPSDMA vice-chairman Lt Gen Yogendra Dimri, principal secretary (revenue) Aparna U, Bihar State Disaster Management Authority vice-chairman Dr Uday Kant Mishra and Central Command chief Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta.

Krishna said effective flood management depends on seamless coordination among police, disaster response forces, civil administration and local communities to ensure swift deployment of resources.

He outlined a five-pillar police framework — prevention, preparedness, prediction, protection and prompt response — adding that capabilities have expanded since the State Disaster Response Force was formed in 2017. The state currently has 17 Provincial Armed Constabulary flood relief companies comprising 51 platoons, and six SDRF companies with 18 teams, with nearly 2,500 trained personnel on round-the-clock standby.

Based on vulnerability mapping, 44 districts have been identified as flood-prone, including 18 highly sensitive, 12 sensitive and 14 moderately vulnerable districts, where resources have been positioned to cut response time.

Rescue teams are equipped with motorboats, life jackets, life buoys, searchlights, scuba gear, underwater communication systems and advanced ambulances. Krishna said units are undergoing a 45-day specialised training programme from May 16 to June 30, covering boat handling, diving, rope rescue, CPR, first aid and relief distribution.