Dehradun: In a major push to strengthen disaster preparedness at the grassroots, Uttarakhand is set to empower village heads as “Disaster Commanders,” turning villages into the first line of defence against natural calamities. The initiative, driven jointly by the Panchayati Raj and Disaster Management departments, aims to build disaster-resilient villages across the state.

Announced during a review meeting at the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority, Disaster Management Minister Madan Kaushik directed officials to roll out practical and technical training for Gram Pradhans, enabling them to lead immediate rescue and relief efforts during emergencies. The focus is on strengthening response capacity within the crucial first 24 hours of any disaster.

The government also plans to upgrade infrastructure with a state-of­-the-art State Emergency Operation Center and technologically advanced district-level control rooms. Key departments, including SDRF, Forest, and PWD, will be equipped with modern tools to enhance on-ground efficiency.

Special emphasis is being laid on the construction of disaster shelters, with instructions to ensure quality, timely completion, and location-specific planning based on geographical vulnerability. The initiative will address risks from earthquakes, landslides, floods, and other natural hazards.

Under the World Bank-supported U-PREPARE Project, multipurpose disaster centres will be developed, and efforts will be made to make villages self-reliant in managing emergencies. Minister Kaushik also announced that he will personally conduct field visits to monitor project progress and ensure that benefits reach the grassroots.

Officials say the move marks a shift toward community-led disaster management, aiming to transform Uttarakhand’s vulnerable terrain into a network of prepared and resilient villages.

Disclaimer: This news is written on the basis of information received from different authentic sources.