GILGIT: The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) conducted a three-day training and simulation exercise (SimEx) for summer contingencies in the Ghizer district of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The aim of the SimEx was to prepare district-level stakeholders for potential disasters that may occur during the summer season.

The event was attended by over 55 participants from various fields, including academia, district authorities, rescue services and related departments.

Speaking at the concluding day, retired Air Commodore Tanveer Paracha, Chief Coordinator NIDM, emphasised the importance of disaster preparedness and training exercises like the SimEx as they can significantly improve the response to an emergency situation.

Multiple scenarios for potential summer contingencies were simulated during the SimEx, including flash floods, landslides and GLOFs.

The first day of the event covered basic disaster management concepts, climate science, hazard mapping, quantification and group-based activities on hazard analysis. This was essential for participants to familiarise themselves with the basics of disaster management and understand the potential hazards they might face in the region.

The scond day was devoted to vulnerability assessment at the district level, coordinating and managing camps and issuing master scenarios that indicated above-average monsoon forecasts. These scenarios highlighted the possibility of rain-induced landslides, flash flooding and possible GLOF events in various parts of the district.

On the third day, three scenarios were issued, highlighting events of flash floods causing significant havoc to populations, settlements, and infrastructure, as well as a scenario of GLOF and landslide. Each syndicate presented its response followed by a question and answer session.

Deputy Commissioner Ghizer retired Capt Tayyab Sami Khan appreciated NIMA’s efforts to develop the district stakeholders’ capabilities.

SimEx provided a platform to enhance the capacity of district-level stakeholders in disaster management and promote collaborative efforts towards ensuring preparedness and response during likely disasters.

The participants gained valuable knowledge and skills to enhance their response during emergencies.

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2023