Guwahati, April 21 (IANS) In a significant step toward strengthening disaster response capabilities, the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) jointly conducted a comprehensive flood relief training exercise, ‘Jal Raksha-II’, in Assam’s Sivasagar district till Tuesday, officials said.

The exercise was led by the Indian Army’s Red Shield Gunners under the aegis of Indian Army’s Spear Corps, focusing on enhancing operational readiness and inter-agency coordination in the face of recurring flood emergencies in the region.

The two-day exercise which began on Monday commenced with detailed briefings on the structure, composition, and operational roles of Flood Relief Columns.

The NDRF personnel provided insights into established disaster response protocols, emphasising standard operating procedures during flood situations.

These sessions were followed by hands-on demonstrations of specialised rescue equipment and techniques, allowing participants to gain practical familiarity with flood rescue operations.

According to an official statement, on the second day on Tuesday, the exercise advanced into simulation-based activities designed to replicate real-life emergency scenarios.

Key components included ground and drone-based reconnaissance missions, the establishment of a Joint Command Post, and coordinated rescue and casualty evacuation drills.

These integrated operations highlighted seamless communication and collaboration between the Army and NDRF teams.

The NDRF units demonstrated critical rescue techniques such as boat capsize recovery and swift water rescue operations, showcasing their expertise in handling high-risk flood conditions.

Simultaneously, Indian Army medical teams conducted demonstrations on first aid administration and emergency medical response, underscoring the importance of timely medical intervention during disasters.

The exercise also saw active participation from members of the local community, aimed at raising awareness about disaster preparedness and fostering a collaborative approach to emergency response.

Their involvement added a vital civilian dimension to the training, reinforcing the importance of community resilience.

‘Jal Raksha-II’ stands as a testament to the commitment of both forces to ensure a swift, coordinated, and effective response to natural disasters.

Such joint initiatives play a crucial role in enhancing preparedness and safeguarding lives and property in flood-prone regions like Assam.

–IANS

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