New Delhi, July 30 (KNS): A three-day Integrated Disaster Management Symposium and Mock Exercise, Suraksha Chakra, began today at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment. The event is being organised by Headquarters Delhi Area in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) of Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

The exercise brings together SDMAs, central response agencies, the armed forces, and technical institutions to validate disaster response plans, strengthen coordination, and enhance preparedness. It focuses on earthquake and industrial chemical hazards across 18 districts — 11 in Delhi, five in Haryana, and two in Uttar Pradesh.

Head of NDMA Rajendra Singh opened the proceedings, while Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, GOC-in-C, Western Command, delivered the inaugural address, stressing the need for risk assessment, identifying vulnerable areas, and pre-positioning equipment for faster response.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelLt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, GOC, Delhi Area, presented an overview of disaster threats in the region and measures being taken to mitigate them.

The opening day included panel discussions, presentations, and an exhibition of advanced rescue and relief equipment by the NDRF and industry partners. The symposium will conclude with a large-scale mock drill on August 1, where all agencies will participate in a simulated disaster scenario.

The initiative aims to strengthen joint disaster response mechanisms and ensure swift, coordinated action in one of India’s most densely populated regions.(KNS)