NIRMAL, Dec. 19(Abdul Majid): Stressing the importance of advance preparedness in disaster management, Telangana Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao on Friday directed district collectors to ensure the successful conduct of a disaster management mock exercise on December 22 across the State.

The Chief Secretary held a video conference with officials of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and district collectors to review preparedness measures, mock drill arrangements and mitigation strategies for natural calamities.

Mr. Ramakrishna Rao said that timely alerts, proper planning and accurate assessment of situations could significantly reduce loss of life and property during disasters. He underlined that effective communication is crucial during emergencies and instructed officials to make use of all available communication tools to ensure real-time dissemination of information.

He said that saving lives should be the top priority during disaster situations and called for coordinated efforts among nearly 35 government departments. He directed officials to provide real-time updates to the public on rainfall, reservoir water levels, release of water, and the condition of bridges and roads. He also asked authorities to widely publicise toll-free emergency service numbers.

The Chief Secretary said sanitation management and medical services assume critical importance during disasters. He noted that NDRF teams would extend support to SDRF teams in the State and added that helicopter services could be utilised during emergencies, if required. He also stressed the need for strict safety measures to prevent industrial accidents.

NDMA officials later explained various disaster mitigation measures in detail and shared best practices with district authorities.

Participating in the video conference, District Collector Abhilasha Abhinav said the district administration was fully prepared to handle any disaster situation and assured that the mock exercise scheduled for December 22 would be conducted successfully. She said awareness programmes had been organised to educate people on safety measures during disasters.

Referring to the recent monsoon season, the Collector said the district had witnessed unprecedented heavy rainfall and floods. However, due to early warnings, clear planning, coordinated efforts of NDRF and SDRF teams, administrative machinery and public cooperation, the floods were managed without any loss. She added that the district remains prepared to face future challenges.

She further said that emergency kits containing essential items had recently been supplied to every mandal for use during emergencies and assured that disaster preparedness awareness would be further expanded among the public.

Additional Collectors Faizan Ahmed and Kishore Kumar, along with officials from various departments, attended the video conference.