Tsunami Preparedness Enhanced in Alappad Through Mock Drill Exercise
PSC Notes
Simulated Tsunami Scenario: A mock drill was conducted in Alappad grama panchayat to test crisis management for tsunami preparedness, coordinated by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, INCOIS, and the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority.
Emergency Alert and Response Initiation: The exercise began with INCOIS issuing an alert about an 8.8-magnitude earthquake in North Sumatra, triggering a simulated tsunami advisory for Kerala’s coast.
Swift Evacuation Efforts: Led by the district administration, the drill involved evacuating 1,005 residents, including vulnerable individuals, to the R.C Emmanuel LP School. Fire and Rescue teams, police, and local authorities facilitated the relocation.
Medical and Basic Necessities Provisioned: The Health department provided primary care, while food, clothing, essential medicines, and electricity were supplied to evacuees, ensuring a comprehensive relief camp setup.
Multi-Department Coordination: The drill included the coordinated efforts of departments like Revenue, Police, Fire and Rescue, Fisheries, Health, and Local Self-Government, with technical assistance from Amrita School for Sustainable Futures.
Tsunami-Ready Certification Goal: Due to the effective execution of the drill, Alappad may be considered for ‘tsunami-ready’ certification, which evaluates factors such as evacuation planning, route mapping, awareness initiatives, and regular drills.
Positive Review and Future Preparedness: Officials including the Additional District Magistrate, UNESCO representatives, and local leaders attended the review meeting, highlighting the success and reinforcing the importance of continued tsunami preparedness in coastal regions.