Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 6: A two-day workshop on “Disaster Management and Disaster Risk Reduction in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir” began at the University of Jammu today.
As per a statement, the programme has been organised by the Disaster Management Centre, Department of Geology, in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR).
It said the workshop aimed at enhancing awareness, preparedness and capacity building for effective disaster management in the region.
The inaugural session was attended by Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu, Prof Neelu Rohmetra as the Chief Guest and Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction (DMRRR), Snober Jameel as the Guest of Honour.
On the occasion, Prof Rohmetra released a special booklet titled “When Nature Strikes: Survive & Safeguard,” which provides information about various disasters and the precautions to be followed during emergencies.
Addressing the gathering, Prof Rohmetra said that Jammu and Kashmir, known for its natural beauty and unique geography, remains vulnerable to hazards such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, avalanches and extreme weather events.
She said disaster management should focus not only on response but also on preparedness, resilience and sustainable development.
She added that such workshops help institutions share knowledge, strengthen coordination and build more resilient communities.
The booklet has been compiled by Prof SK Pandita, Director, Disaster Management Centre, University of Jammu, Dr Yudhbir Singh, Associate Professor, Department of Geology, University of Jammu, and Dr Ahsan Ul Haq, Assistant Professor, Department of Geology, University of Jammu.
It introduces various natural and human-induced disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, floods, avalanches, fires, snake bites, heat waves, road accidents and acid attacks.
The booklet also provides simple illustrations and practical safety guidelines to help people respond effectively during emergencies.
Speaking on the occasion, Snober Jameel said disaster management has become a necessity as natural disasters are occurring more frequently.
She stressed that disaster risk reduction requires coordination among Government departments, disaster response agencies, academia, civil society and local communities.
Experts including BK Bansal, Sanjay Srivastava and Ran Bhushan delivered lectures on earthquake resilience and disaster preparedness.
Earlier, Prof Pandita welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts and scientific understanding in reducing disaster risks in the Himalayan region. The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Yudhbir Singh.
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