'NDRF Prepared to tackle chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear emergencies'

Cuttack: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is the sole force in the world which handles all kinds of disasters including chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) emergencies, said NDRF DG, SN Pradhan.

While speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event in Cuttack Bali Yatra, Pradhan informed that during the triple disaster in Japan in 2011 (earthquake, Tsunami and leakage from nuclear reactors), NDRF was one of the teams that stayed and retrieved bodies exposed to radiation.

"NDRF teams were prepared and trained with necessary equipments to tackle such emergency situations. For this, Japan government had also appreciated the efforts of NDRF. We are prepared to the extent possible for CBRN emergencies," said Pradhan.

According to Pradhan, though there has been no major industrial disaster after the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, adequate efforts are being made to ensure that proper training is imparted to deal with exigencies.

"Community is the first responder during any natural disaster. As part of NDRF's mission, extensive training to NCC and other people will be provided in the next two years so that they can handle the 'golden hour' which can play a crucial role in saving lives of others," Pradhan added.