Section 34 of DMA : Section 34: Powers And Functions Of District Authority In The Event Of Any Threatening Disaster Situation Or Disaster

Explanation using Example

Imagine a heavy monsoon season has led to severe flooding in a coastal district. The local river has overflowed, inundating homes and cutting off access to several communities. The District Authority invokes Section 34 of The Disaster Management Act, 2005, to manage the crisis effectively.

Under this authority, the District Authority:

• Directs the local health department to release medical supplies and set up temporary clinics for affected residents.
• Imposes restrictions on vehicular movement in flooded areas to facilitate the movement of rescue and relief vehicles.
• Prevents civilians from entering particularly dangerous zones to ensure public safety.
• Organizes teams to remove debris from key roads to allow access to emergency services and to rescue individuals trapped in their homes.
• Sets up temporary shelters in schools and community centers, providing food, clean water, and essential services to displaced families.
• Coordinates with telecom companies to establish emergency communication networks for rescue operations and to enable separated families to communicate.
• Arranges a dignified disposal of unclaimed bodies found in the aftermath of the flooding.
• Requests the local electricity board to take precautionary measures to prevent electrocution and restore power safely.
• Engages engineering experts to assess the structural integrity of bridges and buildings affected by the flood.
• Secures additional boats and heavy-lifting equipment from private companies for rescue and relief operations.
• Constructs temporary footbridges over flooded areas to reconnect isolated communities.
• Coordinates with NGOs to ensure aid distribution is fair and reaches all communities, including the most vulnerable.
• Implements additional emergency measures such as airdropping supplies to areas that are completely cut off.

This coordinated response, empowered by Section 34, helps the district mitigate the disaster's impact and aids in the recovery of the affected populace.