Delhi to set up own disaster response force after Satya Niketan building collapse

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), where officials discussed the formation of a dedicated SDRF for Delhi.

In Short

• Around 1,100 personnel are planned for the proposed SDRF battalion
• Delhi Fire Service staff and Civil Defence volunteers will get specialised training
• Delhi Fire Service staff and Civil Defence volunteers will get specialised training

The Delhi government has decided to set up its own State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to strengthen emergency response and speed up rescue and relief operations in the national capital, following the deadly Satya Niketan building collapse on Sunday, which claimed seven lives and left many injured.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), where officials discussed the formation of a dedicated SDRF for Delhi.

The government is planning to constitute the SDRF battalion comprising around 1,100 personnel. The force will be specially trained to respond to disasters and carry out rescue and relief operations across the city.

The personnel will receive specialised training in disaster management, rescue operations and emergency response, enabling them to respond quickly to incidents without having to rely solely on external forces.

As part of the plan, Delhi Fire Service personnel and Civil Defence volunteers will also receive specialised disaster-response training. This is aimed at strengthening the city's existing emergency-response network and improving coordination during major incidents.

The proposed force is expected to play a key role in responding to a range of emergencies, including earthquakes, floods, building collapses and other disasters.

The Delhi government's objective is to ensure that rescue and relief operations can begin immediately at the local level during an emergency. A dedicated state-level disaster response force would allow trained personnel to reach affected areas quickly and coordinate rescue efforts on the ground.

The move is also aimed at strengthening Delhi's preparedness for large-scale disasters by creating a specialised force equipped to handle emergency situations and support existing agencies during rescue and relief operations.

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