Guwahati: In a bid to bolster preparedness for recurring flood emergencies, the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force carried out a joint flood relief exercise, 'Jal Raksha-II', in Sivasagar district of Assam, officials said.
The two-day exercise which began on Monday, led by the Army's Red Shield Gunners under the aegis of the Spear Corps, focused on strengthening coordination and operational readiness between agencies in dealing with flood situations common to the region.
Training began with detailed briefings on the structure and functioning of Flood Relief Columns, alongside sessions led by NDRF personnel outlining standard operating procedures during disasters.
Participants were also introduced to specialised rescue equipment and techniques through practical demonstrations aimed at building hands-on familiarity.
On the second day, the drill moved to simulation-based scenarios replicating real-time emergencies.
These included reconnaissance operations using ground teams and drones, setting up of a Joint Command Post, and coordinated rescue and evacuation exercises, reflecting integrated response mechanisms between the two forces.
Specialised rescue operations such as boat capsize recovery and swift water rescue were demonstrated by NDRF teams, while Army medical units showcased first aid and emergency response procedures, highlighting the role of timely medical assistance during disasters.
The exercise also involved participation from local residents, aimed at promoting awareness on disaster preparedness and strengthening community-level response.
Officials said such engagement is key to building resilience in flood-prone areas.
'Jal Raksha-II' underscores the continued efforts of both forces to enhance coordination and ensure swift, effective responses during natural disasters, particularly in vulnerable regions like Assam.