Disaster management centre on the anvil

December 30, 2014 09:21 am | Updated 09:21 am IST - CHENNAI:

The Corporation resolved to approach the government to permit it to avail a grant from U.S.-based Rockefeller Foundation for strategising disaster management for the city.

Chennai is one of the 100 cities chosen in 2014 for the foundation’s ‘100 resilient cities challenge’. Corporation sources say while the civic body had applied for the grant last year, it was selected this year.

“Chennai, with its flat terrain, is prone to several risks in case of a natural disaster. The tsunami is still alive in our minds, and Chennai has faced earthquakes, floods and droughts. This grant will help us set up an office of experts to come up with strategies to deal with disasters,” a senior Corporation official said.

The office grant will cover the expenses to set up and run an office and will be headed by a chief resilience officer.

“Once the government gives permission, we will put out ads to recruit a consultant who will report to the Corporation Commissioner,” the official said, adding the grant would also help network with other cities chosen by the foundation.

While the primary goal would be disaster management, the grant will also help the Corporation explore solutions for other stresses and shocks the city faces, the official said.

“Whether it is solid waste management, better drainage or public health, credible strategies will be brainstormed with the grant through the independent office of the CRO and support staff,” the official said.

Chennai was selected based on an application made by the civic body, highlighting the vulnerability of the city due to its geographical positioning, its flat terrain and a promise to deliver on strategies. Bengaluru is the other Indian city selected this year.

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