SDMA organises workshop on disaster risk communication in Sgr

Srinagar: The State Disaster Management Authority in collaboration with Jhelum and Tawi Flood Recovery Project Saturday organised a sensitisation program on Disaster Risk Communication through HAM radios here at Institute of Hotel Management, Rajbagh.
The program was inaugurated by Dr Raghav Langer, CEO, ERA/JTFRP and presided over by Er Aamir Ali, Dy. CEO, JKSDMA.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Raghav said the terrestrial communication gets affected in the event of any major disaster, making the task of search and rescue very difficult in the absence of communication. In this regard, he said HAM radio system or Amateur radio communications is an alternative component to overcome such situations.
He also lauded the Director Disaster Management for taking the initiative to train the stakeholders and make them aware about the concept and to train them to qualify for the compulsory examination for obtaining a ham radio license. He said amateur radio stations are used worldwide as an assured mode of communication, especially during emergencies and disasters.
During the workshop Aamir Ali trained the participants about the procedures and radio rules, so that they can become eligible to appear in the examination to be conducted by Wireless Planning Centre, Union Ministry of Communications and IT. The participants got an opportunity to get hands on experience at the workshop, regarding the use and application of HAM radio/Amateur radio stations.
The workshop was attended by Civil Defense Wardens, Volunteers from Mountaineering and Hiking Club, Personnel from State Emergency Operation Centre, State Disaster Response Force, Police Telecom Operators, Fire and Emergency Service and Disaster Management Professionals from various District Disaster Management Authorities.
Dy. Sp of Police Fayaz Yaseen, President Mountaineering and Hiking Club Mahmood Ahmad Shah, Principal Institute of Hotel Management, Shabir Ahmad, Director Planning JTFRP Iftikar Ahmad Hakeem and Director Technical JTFRP Khalid Malik were present in the workshop.