Kargil, August 12, 2026/ VOL News Desk/ Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Rakesh Kumar (IAS) chaired a meeting with UT Disaster Response Force (DRF) personnel and volunteers from various religious organisations and rescue teams, including Baseej-e-Imam, Al Mehdi Scouts and Baseej-e-Baqiyatullah, at the DC Office Chamber to discuss strengthening rescue and disaster-response capabilities in the district.

During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner sought suggestions from the concerned rescue teams regarding essential equipment required during emergency and rescue operations.

The participating rescue teams highlighted the need for specialised equipment, including hydraulic cutters, fire extinguishers, roof launch guns, deep-water cameras, metallic crates, life jackets, Aska lights, walkie-talkies, thermal detectors, survival blankets, Kaba/Kabba equipment, Lumitic bags, hydraulic power units, and lifting and pulling machines, among others.

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The Deputy Commissioner directed the Additional Deputy Commissioner to establish a properly equipped disaster-response store at a prominent location, which would remain operational 24×7 and be managed through the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), ensuring timely availability of equipment during emergencies.

He also directed the concerned officers to facilitate the registration of volunteers under the Aapda Mitra programme so that trained community volunteers can be effectively integrated into the district’s disaster-response mechanism.

Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated the role played by religious organisations, volunteers and local rescue teams during emergencies and emphasised the importance of strengthening coordination, equipment availability and preparedness to ensure a swift and effective response during disasters.

The meeting was attended by ADC, Kargil; SE, PWD; Exn R&B; DySP, DAR; Accounts Officer to DC beside others officers, officials and representatives of rescue team of IKMT, JUIAK, Anjuman e Sahib Zaman.