Tehran, on the brink of heavy rainfall caused by the El Niño phenomenon, is welcoming potential crises by holding a large-scale drill to prepare rescue forces. In this context, 30 entities related to the flood and crisis management sector have gathered for two days at the Shahid Beheshti Lake (Chitgar) to participate in the fourth round of skill enhancement and practical flood and survival training under harsh conditions.
Training and Practical Exercises in Rescue Tents
As the clock strikes 9, the northern side of Chitgar Lake is not just a place for tourists and athletes. Upon entering this location, tents with various activities have been set up, indicating the presence of forces from 30 organizations, institutions, and rescue entities. Ali Nasiri, head of the Tehran Disaster Prevention and Management Organization, announced that 110 tents have been erected and 500 individuals are participating in educational and operational courses.
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The first day of this drill was dedicated to training. Alongside the tents, 7 booths have been set up for educational classes, each of which will be repeated seven times so that all attendees can acquire necessary skills in various fields. Training includes working with GPS, rescuing victims, and managing the bodies of flood victims.
Rescue Operations and Synergy Between Agencies
The second day of the drill is dedicated to showcasing learned skills and knowledge. With the announcement of the start of operations, the Red Crescent and firefighting forces will search for and rescue victims of the hypothetical incident. Nasiri emphasized that this drill has created a type of synergy and empathy among rescue agencies, and in the event of flooding, the forces will be better prepared to assist the people.
At the end of the operations, Nasiri pointed to Tehran's structural problems in facing flooding, stating: "Tehran has 11 river valleys and several flood diversion channels, and we need 700 kilometers of canals and waterways." However, he also mentioned encroachments on the banks and beds of rivers as a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Officials also emphasized the need for further training to cope with crises so that citizens can provide the best assistance during tough times. According to Majid Bagheri, Deputy Planning of Tehran Municipality, these drills are held with the aim of ensuring the comfort and peace of citizens.
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