In a significant move to strengthen its disaster response capabilities, the state of Assam has inducted a fresh fleet of 40 advanced, high-speed inflatable rubber boats for rescue operations. These boats, which incorporate Japanese technology, are designed to aid in rescuing flood-affected individuals and people swept away by rivers.
A Major Boost for State Disaster Response Force
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority formally handed over these India-made, Japanese-machinery-equipped boats to the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) on Saturday. The ceremony took place at the Guwahati Gateway Terminal, where State Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Keshab Mahanta presented the boats to the Fire and Emergency Services, Assam, for SDRF's use.
With this latest addition, the total number of such high-speed motorised boats provided to the SDRF has now reached 301. This continuous enhancement of resources underscores the state's focus on improving preparedness for annual floods and water-related emergencies.
Advanced Features for Rapid Response
Each boat, produced at a cost of Rs 6.65 lakh, comes with several critical features tailored for efficient rescue work. Officials highlighted that the boats have detachable engines, making them easy to transport on other vehicles by road to remote or affected areas quickly.
Powered by a robust 30-horsepower engine and fitted with modern rescue gear, a single rubber boat has the capacity to rescue 8 to 10 people in one trip and bring them to safety. This speed and capacity are vital during flash floods when time is of the essence.
Strategic Deployment and Demonstration
During the handover event, the capabilities of the new fleet were put on display. A team of SDRF divers conducted a mock rescue operation on the Brahmaputra River using a fleet of 15 high-speed rescue boats, showcasing their operational readiness.
Minister Keshab Mahanta emphasized the strategic importance of the new assets. "These motorised high-speed rescue boats will significantly contribute to enhancing the capabilities of the SDRF in conducting rapid rescue operations during floods and other disasters, as well as water-related accidents," he stated.
The deployment plan for the 40 new boats is strategic. While some will be stationed on the Brahmaputra in greater Guwahati, others will be distributed to various flood-prone districts across Assam, ensuring a wider and quicker response network.
The event was attended by several senior officials, including ADGP Assam Police and Fire and Emergency Services director Surendra Kumar and Revenue and Disaster Management Department Secretary Meenakshi Das Nath.
