National Workshop on Enhancing Response Capabilities in Chemical Disasters
New Delhi, 19 Feb 2025 – The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) organized a workshop on “Enhancing Response Capabilities in Chemical Disasters” bringing together experts, stakeholders, and Rescuers on a common platform to discuss strategies for effective disaster management and response in the event of chemical contingencies.
The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Piyush Anand, IPS, Director General, NDRF and attended by experts from DRDE, INMAS, NACWC, DMI Bhopal, Delhi Fire Services, DDMA and other organizations and field officers from SDRFs involved in handling of chemical disasters.
In his inaugural address DG NDRF highlighted the increasing challenges due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and hazardous material transportation on a large scale. He emphasized that chemical disasters pose severe threats to human lives, animals and the environment and a proper understanding and appreciation of various issues blended with sound training and upgraded equipment is essential for effective response.
Dr Anjan Ray, Former Director CSIR presented keynote address and proposed conduct of a Disaster Communication Workshop to focus on methodologies for community awareness on chemical hazards.
During the session, insights and valuable experiences were shared by the distinguished speakers from DRDE, INMAS, DMI Bhopal and SDRFs of Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Gujarat in which the importance of preparedness was highlighted through references to past chemical disasters and best practices adopted by response Forces worldwide.
NDRF has taken significant steps in enhancing disaster response capabilities by deploying specialized CBRN teams nationwide and is conducting regular scenario-based mock exercises and drills involving all stakeholders.
Shri Narendra Singh Bundela, IPS, IG NDRF presented summary of the deliberations and emphasized the need to identify gaps, conduct of State level Mock Ex and undertake joint response.
In the closing session, Shri Piyush Anand DG NDRF expressed appreciation for the valuable discussions and expert insights shared during the workshop. He stressed on the need to further strengthen response protocols and mechanisms to meet emerging new challenges. The workshop served as a unique platform for collaboration among agencies and experts with the aim of building a resilient India in chemical disaster management.
