When in disaster turn to God: Expert

Col Sanjay Srivastava, a government adviser on disaster management, tells Sanjay Ojha that in case of a major calamity like an earthquake or fire, Jharkhand is not in a position to tackle it and that only the Almighty can help the people of the state
Q. Every year some calamity or the other (drought or flood) hits the state and hundreds of peopel lose their lives and property.Is the state disaster management department really equipped to handle such calamities?
No. We are slowly improving and trying to set up a system that can handle any calamity but at present we don't have an organized set up.
Q. In case of a disaster, from where does the government get trained rescue personnel?
At present we don't have a team of experts to tackle disasters like earthquakes, fire, flood and famine. Every time there are floods we have to take the help of others.
Q. Government and private schools are at high risk because of high-tension overhead wires, old buildings, distribution of LPG cylinders near school premises and lack of fire-fighting equipment. Is the state disaster department doing anything to check this problem?
We have started taking steps in this direction and are training school officials and principals. A manual has also been prepared for schools. In this area, too, much work has to be done before schools are ready to tackle disasters.
Q. What kind of training is provided to teachers to minimise loss of life and property in case of a disaster?
We have plans for live demonstration to teachers and students to save their lives in case of a disaster in a school. To ensure that teachers and students are prepared during a crisis we will form a committee in each school.
Q. Are district officials seriously following the guidelines?
No. In most of the places the district administration is not serious. Many people, including school authorities, have brought to our notice the indifferent attitude of the administration where they have ignored complaints for removal of overhead electric lines passing over schools and residential buildings.
Q. There are two oil depots in Ranchi and in case of an accident they will endanger the lives of thousands of people. Is the department doing anything to shift the depots?
Yes. We have asked the oil companies to shift the depots to some other place which is not populated and expect that this will be done in the next few months.
Q. What should a common man do in case of a major disaster?
Everyone should pray that till the time there is a system in place there is no major disaster in the state. In case of a disaster, only God can save us. Just pray to God.