A significant consultation workshop was marked at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon in Dhaka today (April 3), symbolizing a collaborative endeavor towards strengthening the National Emergency Management Response Capacity. 

The event hosted as part of the Training, Exercises, and Drills (TED) Programme by UNDP Bangladesh under the Urban Resilience Project (DDM Part), with financial support from the World Bank, the workshop focused on the self-capacity assessment of the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) and Bangladesh Police. 

The objective was to formulate light and medium Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Teams for INSARAG accreditation.

The workshop witnessed active participation from key stakeholders, including officials from the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, Department of Disaster Management, Bangladesh Police, Fire Service and Civil Defence, UN Residence Coordinator’s Office, and eminent experts in the field. Mr. Md Kamrul Hasan ndc, Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, underscoring the government's unwavering commitment to disaster resilience. Brigadier General Md. Main Uddin, BSP (BAR), ndc, psc, G, M Phil, Director-General of the Department of Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD), and Mr. Quazi Zia Uddin, BPM, Deputy Inspector General (HRM) of the Bangladesh Police, attended as Special Guests.

During the welcome speech, Dr. ATM Mahbubul Karim, Project Director of URP (DDM Part), emphasized the critical importance of enhancing the nation's Emergency Management Response Capacity. He stressed the necessity of national accreditation to INSARAG and advocated aligning capacity-building efforts with global standards. Brigadier General Md. Main Uddin reiterated FSCD's readiness, affirming their preparedness with requisite training and equipment to elevate their post-disaster search and rescue capabilities to international standards through INSARAG accreditation. Mr. Quazi Zia Uddin highlighted the significance of integrated training for Bangladesh Police in enhancing their USAR capabilities.

Mr. Md Kamrul Hasan ndc urged all stakeholders to continue collaborating closely, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing, expertise, and resource alignment to fortify the nation's USAR capabilities. He emphasized the MoDMR's steadfast commitment to supporting initiatives that advance disaster resilience and safeguard the welfare of citizens. The workshop concluded with a unified resolve amongst stakeholders to embark on a collaborative effort towards achieving INSARAG accreditation, thereby enhancing Bangladesh's preparedness and resilience in the face of urban mega-disasters.

BDST: 1410 HRS, April 04, 2024
MSK