HP to set up institute to strengthen disaster preparedness and response

Chief Minister proposes establishment of State Institute of Disaster Management

- ASHWANI SHARMA

SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to set up the State Institute of Disaster Management (SIDM) at the Dr Manmohan Singh Himachal Institute of Public Administration, Shimla, to strengthen disaster preparedness and institutional response.

With the increased frequency of disasters related to climate change, global warming and massive human activity, much of which along river sides and National Highways, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu proposed the establishment of the SIDM.

He said Shimla-based Himachal Pradesh University will lead research and development initiatives, while a detailed study on high-risk glacial lakes has been ordered.

Emphasising the growing frequency of natural disasters, the state government stressed the need to involve local communities in awareness efforts, especially in light of the widespread devastation witnessed during the 2023 monsoon season.