Forgetting the tsunami

Any national calamity demands strict compliance of a damage control system that incorporates a strong and effective communication network; strict compliance of standard operating procedures; quick rehabilitation and resettlement; and the imbibing of the lessons of each experience. All the four steps essentially work in close coordination with each other.

Let’s briefly recall the Bhuj earthquake. It was no different from the tsunami except that it was land-based. Post-Bhuj, many reports brought out the lack of government preparedness on all fronts. For instance, drugs and other necessities did not reach the needy and were left to rot. Ironically, a large chunk of aid also found its way into the black market. The fact that we did not learn any lessons from the scores of recommendations made after Bhuj was apparent from the manner in which we have handled the tsunami disaster.

Given this reality, the government should now gear itself to set up a Damage Control Department which should be put under the command of the armed forces and not the civil bureaucracy. There is no denying that the military is better trained to handle calamities, man made or otherwise, and are better equipped and experienced. Besides, being apolitical, the armed forces have greater acceptability across the board and their discipline helps in the speedy implementation of relief measures. Civil services do play a vital role but only at the post-operations stage and in long-term rehabilitation.

Most countries have standard operating procedures to tackle emergencies. All that India needs is a time-bound implementation of these SOPs under an effective leadership. How many more disasters will it take before India gets around to putting an effective system in place?

The writer is senior president, Corporate, Nicholas Piramal India Ltd