Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has initiated the process of setting up a dedicated State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) for Delhi, days after the Satya Niketan building collapse claimed seven lives. The proposed force is aimed at strengthening the Capital’s disaster preparedness, reducing response times and improving coordination during major emergencies.
At present, Delhi relies on the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Fire Services and the police for specialised disaster response. Rekha Gupta said the formation of a dedicated SDRF for Delhi was long overdue. “Most states in the country have already established an SDRF; having one for a densely populated metropolis like Delhi is the need of the hour,” she said.
“The Delhi government will now move forward in this direction to reduce reliance on external aid during disasters and to bolster local capacity for immediate response, the Chief Minister said, adding that the aim was not merely to respond after disasters strike but to strengthen the city’s preparedness.
The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Rekha Gupta at the Delhi Secretariat. According to officials, Delhi could raise an SDRF battalion comprising up to 1,100 personnel. The force would function under the state government and could be rapidly deployed for rescue and relief operations.
The move follows the Satya Niketan building collapse, which highlighted the need for a stronger local disaster-response mechanism. The decision is particularly significant as Delhi falls under Seismic Zone IV and remains vulnerable to earthquakes, flooding and other major emergencies.
