National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue
Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue, 2014 The Government of Nepal Ministry of Home Affairs 2014 National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/0 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 1. Background: Nepal is a hotspot for natural disasters such as floods, landslides, fire, cyclonic winds, hailstorms, drought, famine and epidemics. Located on an active seismic belt, Nepal is also highly vulnerable to seismic activities. The historical records have shown that Kathmandu valley has witnessed serious damages of life and property from the major earthquakes in 19th century. One of the most devastating earthquakes in 1934 AD, with magnitude of 8.4 having the epicenter in the eastern region of Nepal, caused serious damages around the country. Around 60% of the buildings had been damaged and about 8519 people were killed, out of which 4269 people were from Kathmandu Valley alone. It is difficult to predict an earthquake, but it is inevitable. When it occurs, not the earthquake itself, but effects of it devastates all human built infrastructures and that destroys lives and property. It catastrophes the infrastructures of physical development built by human since centuries including other structures and natural environment. If the event of a major earthquake occurs in Nepal, it is likely that major hospitals, schools and buildings and houses of the general public would collapse. A large numbers of live victims buried in the debris, thousands of people would be injured and a large number of people would be displaced. In such situation the immediate needs for search and rescue capacity would be overwhelming and it is important to establish and enhance the capacity of an integrated Search and Rescue (SAR) team to respond it. 2. Concept of Strategic Action Plan: Trained personnel from the Security forces namely Nepal Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) are working as Search and Rescue (SAR) team as Nepal does not have specialized capable and skilled unified SAR force till the date. The Government of Nepal (GoN), for disaster response, has developed the minimum level SAR capacity from the trained and dedicated security personnel of Nepali Army (NA), Armed Police Force (APF) and Nepal Police (NP). Based on the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction (NSDRM) – 2066 (2009) and analytical recommendations received from International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) in 2011, and lessons and suggestions from policy Action Plan prepared for capacity building by National Disaster Response Frame work, 2070 and Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan the Government of Nepal (GoN) has prioritized the formation, capacity building and strengthening integrated SAR capacity in the country. This strategy, basically, is based on the guidelines and methodology of United Nations' International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). It has insured the preparedness for response. Based on the response work plan of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) the National Rescue Teams performs the duty of emergency rescue. This Action Plan, enhancing overall capacity, enhances the rescue capacity for every new emergency response. The exercise to be performed in different level, the language to be used and the information to be shared should be common. Interconnecting preparedness, capacity development, trainings and capacity indicators at all level, this addresses it in a unified approach to each other. While mobilizing the SAR teams, the components of management, logistics, Search and Rescue (SAR) and medical also will be included in it. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/1 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) The framework of the Search and Rescue (SAR) response will be as shown in the picture. Coordination approach between national and international responders during major disasters shall be as determined by the national response framework. The first responders shall be local emergency service and community responders and there shall be light, medium and heavy SAR taskforces in the national SAR taskforce. There shall be medium and heavy taskforces in the international taskforce. International National SAR Taskforce • Medium SAR Teams • Light SAR Teams • Light SAR Love/Belonging First Responders Local Emergency Services Community Responders Safety 3. Strategic Vision: A strategic vision is to develop a professionally and technically sound Search and Rescue (SAR) Team in Nepal as per the INSARAG Guidelines and National Disaster Response Framework (NDRF, 2070), and enhance effectiveness in the SAR activities. 4. Purpose of the Strategic Action Plan: Form a specialized SAR team for disaster response and enhance capacity in accordance of international standards. Enable the SAR team spontaneously in SAR activities assigning clear area of work. Create an excellent environment for developing capacity of Search and Rescue (SAR) with an active coordination and assistance of the government and other stakeholders, and make capable to address the challenges of Search and Rescue (SAR) remaining in a single action plan immediately after disaster incidents. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/2 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 5. Goal: 1. Set up strong Search and Rescue (SAR) teams of international standard including individuals with specialized training based on standards and experience of the UN International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), and which is conducive to Nepal’s condition and environment on a long-term basis. And gradually build the capacity of such teams. 2. In the present situation set up a Mid-level Search and Rescue (SAR) teams of national standard in the Nepali Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF), and gradually build their capacity. 3. Set up seven general Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in Nepal Police (NP) immediately as the first response act towards making the disaster response effective at the local level, and gradually expand the setting up of such teams and enhance their capacity accordingly. 4. Gradually enhance the capacity of the established search and rescue teams and upgrade them to the international level. 5.1 The basis for the determination of the goals related to the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams are as follows: a. Adopt a tri-partite concept for capacity enhancement, including: (i) Equip the first response act of the community level with necessary logistics. (ii) Strengthen the response capacity of the emergency service providers, and (iii) Develop dedicated Search and Rescue (SAR) teams that could be mobilized immediately, so as to add strength to the daily response activities as per the need. b. Identify and train the efficient human resource that could be mobilized immediately for Search and Rescue (SAR) in the wake of a disaster. 6. Strategy: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Set up specialized and professional Search and Rescue (SAR) teams for the Search and Rescue (SAR) work. Determine a clear area of work and responsibilities of the search and rescue teams. Set up search and rescue teams and the international, national and local level gradually based on the priority as per international standards and suitable to national context and environment. For institutional consolidation, build the capacity of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in coordination and collaboration with various ministries/bodies, donor agencies and partners. Maintain sustainability through institutional consolidation of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams by appointing or replacing individuals only with specialized knowledge and training in the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. Strengthening the disaster search and rescue-oriented preparation for effective response. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/3 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 7. Guiding principles of the strategic action plan for Search and Rescue (SAR) capacity enhancement: 1. The formation of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams shall be based on the standards of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). 2. Search and rescue teams shall be formed and operated on the basis of national context and needs. 3. The advice and consultation received from the UN agencies and donor community shall serve as guidelines for the formation of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. 4. The Central Natural Disaster Relief Committee (CNDRC), the Regional Disaster Relief Committee (RDRC) and District Disaster Relief Committee (DDRC) shall mobilize the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams by working within their jurisdiction. 5. In case of a large scale disaster, the mobilization of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams shall be carried out by the tripartite response mechanism and as per the national disaster response working modality. 6. There shall be pre-management of the mobilization of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams for disaster response activities by receiving prior information on time through the emergency operation centres based on the early/prior information system. 7. In case of large scale disaster, the coordination structure of national and international response actors shall be as per the national disaster response working structure. 8. The National Emergency Operation Centre shall serve as the Secretariat for the mobilization of the search and rescue teams. 8. Problems and Challenges: Specialized and professional integrated Search and Rescue (SAR) teams for the Search and Rescue (SAR) work has not yet been formed in Nepal. In present situation, the trained human resource of Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) are carrying out Search and Rescue (SAR) work for disaster response separately. As per the Government of Nepal Work Division Regulations, 2064 (along with amendment), the Home Ministry has been playing a coordinating role of all activities related to disaster response. There is a need to carry out the disaster response activities including immediate information collection, assessment, regulation, security of life and property, enforcement of law, treatment of the sick and injured, care of the vulnerable people, prior management of relief materials and logistics in a coordinated and effective way. There is a need to enhance the effectiveness of the response capacity by further strengthening the institutional capacity of Nepali Army (NA), Armed Police Force (APF) and Nepal Police (NP) that are involved in the disaster response activities. In present situation, the thematic services provided during an emergency have not been effective. There is lack of coordination in the training programmes provided by various agencies for Search and Rescue (SAR) while the trained human resource remains scattered in different agencies, and there is also lack of continuity of such individuals. The trainings lack quality and uniformity. In this context, the major challenges existing in the area of Search and Rescue (SAR) are as follows: National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/4 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 1. To form specialized and professional integrated Search and Rescue (SAR) teams for response activities. 2. To integrate the training human resource scattered in various agencies and develops professionalism in them. 3. Develop modern knowledge and skills related to Search and Rescue (SAR) in the trained human resource, and manage sufficient equipment and logistics for it. 4. Run training programmes in a managed way as per the international standards and suitable to Nepali context and situation. 5. Remove the existing legal complexities in the formation of Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. 6. Manage in designated types and sufficient number the Search and Rescue (SAR) materials, individual and communication equipments, medical equipment and other logistical goods and equipments necessary for effective Search and Rescue (SAR) work. 7. In the urban centres, ensure management of sufficient number of fire control teams, fire control equipments, provide necessary training for the fire controllers and ensure sufficient amount of necessary water for the same. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/5 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 9. S N 1. Formation of Search and Rescue (SAR) Team and their Plan of Action: Strategy Activities Set up the specialized and professional Search and Rescue (SAR) team for Search and Rescue (SAR) 1. Ensure legal basis amending the existing laws for setting up the Search and Rescue (SAR) Team 2. Identify the existing trained human resources within the three security forces to set up the Search and Rescue (SAR) team 3. Divide the existing trained human resources into three categories (specially trained, moderately trained and simply trained) based on their skill and capacity 4. Identify the existing equipment and resources for establishing the National Medium Search and Rescue Teams and list out the necessary equipment and resources. 5. Identify, after assessing and analysing, the existing equipment and resources for Responsible Agency Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) Supportive Agency Duration Expected Achievements Proper legal basis will be established. Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs (MoLJPA) Ministry of Home Nepali Army (NA), Affairs (MoHA), Nepal Police (NP) Ministry of Defense and Armed Police (MoD) Force (APF) Within 6 months Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD) Within 3 months Nepali Army (NA), Ministry of Home Armed Police Force Affairs (MoHA), (APF) Ministry of Defense (MoD) Within 6 months A detailed list of equipment and accessories for SAR will be identified. Nepal Police (NP) Within 6 months A detailed list of equipment and accessories for Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) Within 2 months Existing trained human resources within the three security forces will be identified. Trained human resources will be classified. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/6 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 2. Determine the clear area of work and responsibilities of the Search and Rescue (SAR) Team establishing the Light Search and Rescue Team and list out the necessary equipment and resources. 6. Identify the existing equipment and human resources for setting up the local community level Search and Rescue (SAR) team who have received basic level MFR/CSSR training in community level from NRCS and national and international assisting institutions, and prepare a list of necessary accessories and equipment. 1. Develop a road map to mobilize national level medlevel SAR teams with necessary human resources and equipment within Nepal Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF) one in each, and determine functional responsibilities 2. Develop a road map to operate Search and Rescue (SAR) teams with necessary Search and Rescue SAR will be identified. Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS), Nepal Police (NP) Within 6 months Necessary human resources and other resources will be identified to set up the community level Search and Rescue (SAR) team. Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD) Nepali Army (NA), Armed Police Force (APF), UN Agencies, National and International assisting institutions Within 6 months Nepal Police (NP) Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), UN Agencies, Within 6 months Road map will be developed and responsibility identified. Enable spontaneously in Search and Rescue (SAR) activities. The Search and Rescue (SAR) teams within National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/7 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) human resources and equipment in Nepal Police (NP) in its regional, zonal and district level units National and International assisting institutions 3. Develop a road map and determine functional responsibilities to operate the local level community based Search and Rescue (SAR) teams District Disaster Relief Committee (DDRC) and Local Disaster Relief Committees (LDRC) 4. On the basis of road map prepared by the three institutions, prepare a mobilization procedure of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams established in three levels to mobilize them in the disaster 5. Maintain sustainability in the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams ensuring replacement and the positions of the Search and Rescue (SAR) team members is carried out only within the specialized and trained human resources Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) Nepal Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) Nepal Police (NP), Local Bodies, Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and National and International assisting institutions Nepali Army (NA), Armed Police Force (APF), Nepal Police (NP) Within 6 months Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD) Regular Within 9 months various organizations will continuously have trained human resources. Road map will be developed to mobilize community level Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. Mobilization procedure of Search and Rescue (SAR) teams will be developed. Sustainability will be maintained in the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams with institutional consolidation. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/8 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 3. Set up international, national and local level Search and (SAR) teams respectively on the basis of priorities and comply to national context and environment, and in accordance to international standard respectively 1. As the first response, set up the community level first responders at ward level in VDC/municipality based on available human resource and other resources and mobilize during disaster 2. In the first phase, set up seven light Search and Rescue SAR teams in Nepal Police (NP) at its regional, zonal and district units and mobilize during disaster 3. Set up and operate one medlevel Search and Rescue (SAR) team in Nepal Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF) each District Disaster Relief Committee (DDRC), respective District Development Committee (DDC) and Village Development Committee (VDC)/municipality Nepal Police (NP) Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development (MoFALD), Nepal Police (NP) and Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) Within 1 year Community level Search and Rescue SAR teams in disaster prone VDCs of all 75 districts will be formed and mobilized during disaster. Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS), UN Agencies, and National and International NGOs Within 1 year Nepali Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF) Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD), Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS), UN Agencies, and National and International NGOs Within 1 year and 6 months Regional, zonal and district level Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in Nepal Police (NP) will be established and mobilized during disaster. There will be one national level medium Search and Rescue (SAR) team in each Nepal Police (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF). National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/9 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 4. Capacity building of Search and Rescue (SAR) teams with institutional consolidation in coordination and assistance with various government ministries, donor agencies and other partners 1. Provide necessary trainings and instructions to the human resources of local Search and Rescue (SAR) teams established in community level on Search and Rescue (SAR) by trained human resources from Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) 2. Keep capacity development continue providing necessary trainings and instructions to human resources of the light SAR team established in Nepal Police (NP) by trained experts of Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) and other national and international experts 3. Keep institutional capacity development continue providing specialized trainings and instructions to human resources of the medium level SAR teams established in Nepali Army (NA) and Armed Police DDRC and LDRC Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD), District Development Committee (DDC), Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS), UN Agencies and national and international NGOs Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD), Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and national and international NGOs Continue after establishment Trained human resources for Search and Rescue (SAR) will be developed in local level. Continue after establishment Light Search and Rescue (SAR) teams will be developed in Nepal Police (NP) and the Search and Rescue (SAR) activities will be more effective. Nepali Army (NA), Ministry of Home Armed Police Force Affairs (MoHA), (APF) Ministry of Defense (MoD), Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and national and international NGOs Continue after establishment There will be capacity development of the trained human resources on SAR teams established in Nepal Army Nepal Police (NP) National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/10 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) Force (APF) by trained experts of Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) and other national and international experts 4. Prepare National Training Manual Guidance to develop capacity of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams established in three levels on regular basis, and conduct trainings and instructions of basic level, intermediate level and advance level 5. Set up and develop the National Disaster Management Training Academy (NDMTA) to develop special capacity of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams regularly (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF) and the SAR activity will be effective. Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF), Ministry of Defense (MoD) Within 6 months Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP), and Armed Police Force (APF), Ministry of Defense (MoD), Donor Agencies, national and international NGOs Within 2 years With the preparation of National Training Manual Guidance and conduct of trainings and instructions to the SAR teams accordingly, the capable human resources will be prepared in all three levels National Disaster Management Training Academy (NDMTA) will be set up and developed and regular training and instructions National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/11 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 5. 6. For effective response, strengthen the preparedness of disaster Search and Rescue (SAR) oriented activity Regular monitoring and evaluation the activities performed for the establishment, operation, and capacity 6. Consolidate institutional capacity for SAR teams established in different levels (local, Nepal Police (NP), Nepali Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF)) with necessary equipment, machines and tools, and sufficient other resources 1. Keep the SAR teams in a ready to move position at any time for disaster response with support and coordination from line ministries, related government departments, donor agencies and other related entities 1. There will be a national monitoring and evaluation committee comprising the members from Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD), Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP), Armed Police Force (APF), and UN Ministry of Finance (MoF) Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), Ministry of Defense (MoD), UN Agencies, Donor Agencies and assisting institutions Continue Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) Government line ministries and institutions, Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and donor agencies and national and international assisting institutions Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP), Armed Police Force (APF), UN Agencies and other partners Continue in the situation of preparedness Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) Continue will be conducted in specialized way. Adequate resources will be managed and institutional capacity of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams will be strengthened. The Search and Rescue (SAR) teams at all levels will be in ready to move position for disaster response. The Search and Rescue (SAR) teams will be established, operated and their capacity is developed, and they will be operated National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/12 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) development of the SAR teams Agencies, which is coordinated by Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), and that will monitor and evaluate performed activities regularly and prepare a report effectively. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/13 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 10. Enforcement of Action Plan: This strategic action plan has been developed by taking the response design of the Search and Rescue (SAR) group under the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) as a basis and adjusting it to a national form. Support from the donor community, International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), stakeholders and concerned experts is expected for the enforcement of this action plan. The responsible agencies and supporting bodies designated for the enforcement of this action plan shall assume their respective role and responsibilities in an effective way. Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF) are committed to the enforcement of this National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue for development of prepreparation and response system and for capacity enhancement in the context of disaster management in Nepal. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) shall be responsible for the mobilization of the search and rescue teams. The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) shall serve as the Secretariat for the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. Enforcement of this action plan is expected to lead to effectiveness in the disaster management as well as enhance the government’s capacity in disaster response activities, and thereby ensure the quality of the response activities carried out during a disaster. As the present strategic action plan has been developed by being based on all the policies, guidelines and structure of the Government of Nepal (GoN), it shall prove a milestone in the greater disaster management of Nepal. The Search and Rescue (SAR) teams shall function as per the directive of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and in coordination and collaboration with the concerned Ministries, departments and partners. In the context of disaster response, this strategic action plan is expected to become successful in developing the best ability and environment for effective Search and Rescue (SAR) with commitment to the main principle of humanitarian assistance of saving the lives of citizens trapped in the damaged structures or remains. 11. Legal arrangements: In Nepal, the Natural Calamity Relief Act, 1982 is being implemented in order to facilitate disaster management by keeping disaster management related activities within the duty and area of work of the government. This Act is the main basis for formation and operation of Search and Rescue (SAR) teams for disaster response activities. The formation and mobilization of Search and Rescue (SAR) teams for disaster response activities is also covered by the following existing legal and policy measures: National Strategy for Disaster Risk Management, 2066 National Disaster Response Framework, 2070 Disaster Preparedness and Response Planning Guidelines, 2067 Disaster Victim Rescue and Relief Standards, 2064 Nepal Police Act, 2052 and Regulations Local Administration Act, 2028 Armed Police Force Act, 2058 and Regulations Military Act, 2063 National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/14 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) The existing Natural Calamity Relief Act, 2039 must be reformed while necessary amendments must be made to the Army Act, 2063, Armed Police Force Act, 2058 and Nepal Police Act, 2052, and concerned regulations in order to make the Search and Rescue (SAR) work for effective and managed by facing the challenges posed by a disaster, and arrangement must be made to form and operate skilled and professional Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in all the three bodies. For this, necessary amendment/reforms shall be made in the existing law in order to ensure favorable legal arrangement for the same. 12. Institutional measures: 12.1 Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA)/Central Natural Disaster Relief Committee (CNDRS): The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) is playing a coordinating role in disaster management and disaster response activities in Nepal. Under coordination of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), other thematic ministries of the government, commissions, and departments, national and international organizations are carrying out disaster response-related activities in the country. The Central Natural Disaster Relief Committee (CNDRC) chaired by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) is the highest authority to formulate policy and plans for disaster response and provide necessary guidelines. The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) is working as a central coordinating body to collect and disseminate information in time of a disaster and provide disaster response and humanitarian assistance. The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has also been authorized to assess the institutional capacity of various bodies and in time of an emergency disaster response work in coordination with disaster focal points at various ministries/commission and departments. 12.2 Nepali Army (NA): Nepali Army (NA) has been playing the role of the major response actor in disaster management since the past and on many occasions also an active leading role in times of emergency response. The Government of Nepal (GoN) has given Nepali Army (NA) the responsibility of the first response actor in Search and Rescue (SAR) during a disaster as it has an organized and disciplined structure, its own aviation service, communications, transport, health and the capacity to run basic Search and Rescue (SAR) activities. Currently, the Disaster Management Directorate (DMD) has been established in the Nepali Army (NA) as the organized force to run Search and Rescue (SAR) works under disaster management and disaster response activities. Though the Secretariat has been established as a dedicated force, it would not be sufficient to run Search and Rescue (SAR) work from the Directorate in all the regions of the country. So it is essential to further expand the basic Search and Rescue (SAR) capacity being developed in other forces. Nepali Army (NA) has limited stock of basic goods/equipment essential for Search and Rescue (SAR) work while skilled human resource who are trained in the Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) and Medical First Responder (MFR). So far, the Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) teams as per the international practice and standard are yet to be formed in the Nepali Army (NA). Formation of a designated National Medium-level Search and Rescue (SAR) Team in the Nepali Army (NA) is essential in order to make the Search and Rescue (SAR) work effective. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/15 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 12.3 Nepal Police (NP): Nepal Police (NP) has been traditionally performing the role of the first responder in time of an emergency. Whether it’s a fire or any riots, Nepal Police (NP) is immediately mobilized immediately any emergency situation arises. A disaster management unit has been recently established in the Nepal Police (NP) central office while Nepal Police (NP) has 2,133 units from the central to district and local level that have been playing an important role in information collection, coordination of functions and in rescue, relief and rehabilitation work. However, Nepal Police (NP) has only recently established the disaster management special task force and it lacks sufficient facilities for disaster management training. Majority of the trainings take place at the National Police Training Academy where the Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) and Medical First Responder (MFR) equipment have been installed only for training purpose. Along with the recently established disaster management task force, seven for general Search and Rescue (SAR) teams will be established within the structure of Nepal police (NP). 12.4 Armed Police Force (APF): The Armed Police Force (APF) was established as a quasi-military force as per the Armed Police Force Act, 2058. Among its roles, the significant and major task is to support in the search, rescue and relief management of the victims of disaster and epidemic. In 2011, the Disaster Management Training Centre (DMTC) was established in the Armed Police Force (APF) Base Camp in Kurintar with the objective of making disaster management work effective. The objective of establishing the disaster management training centre is to produce necessary professional human resource for Search and Rescue (SAR) and also to enhance the capacity of Armed Police Force (APF). However, sufficient logistical goods and support system necessary for operating disaster management is yet to be ensured in the Armed Police Force (APF). The human personnel trained at the Disaster Management Training Centre (DMTC) will be posted in the Armed Police Force (APF) in an integrated manner and a designated National Medium-level Search and Rescue (SAR) team shall be constituted in order to make emergency response activities more effective and systematic in the future. 12.5 Fire Brigade: Presently there are five fire control teams in Kathmandu valley. As soon as an incident of fire is reported, fire brigade from Kathmandu Metropolis, Lalitpur Sub-metropolis and Bhaktapur municipality reach the incident site immediately for security of public property and work as the first responder to control the fire. Apart from this, there is provision to have at least one fire brigade in every municipality, including all district headquarters. Nepali Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF) also have their own fire control units. These fire fighters are usually mobilized for internal fire control. In case of any incident of fire goes beyond the control of civil fire controllers, then the fire controllers in the Nepali Army (NA) and Nepal Police (NP) can provide necessary National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/16 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) support. After the formation of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams, arrangement shall be made whereby the members of the team shall operate the fire brigades. 12.6 Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) Currently, there is lack of government-approved special training operation guidelines and programme on disaster management for the public institutions and for the general public. However, Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) has been working with its own resources and in collaboration with other aid agencies and organisations working in the sector to run trainings and public awareness programmes, which has provided people in different parts of the country opportunity for training on disaster risk mitigation and disaster response. Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) has been trying to reach every VDC of the country to increase knowledge and public awareness on resilience towards disaster through basic search and rescue skills, community-based risk mitigation training curriculum etc. This organization that reached up to the community-level is expected to become the most equipped organization with network to support community response and capacity building training. Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) has also set up the National Communications System. Through this system, Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) has the ability to communicate with its local units and compile and disseminate information immediately. 12.7 National and International Non-government Organizations (N/INGOs): Many national and international NGOs working in Nepal are also carrying out important task in building Search and Rescue (SAR) capacity at the local level. Coordination and collaboration with these organizations will be important in the future in developing and promoting Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in Nepal. 13. The structure of the three-tier search and rescue group in Nepal will be as follows: 13.1 Community-level response: The Search and Rescue (SAR) team of the local level shall be based on the community and will be regarded as the first responder. This group shall support to fulfill the basic needs wanted immediately in the community of the incident site. It shall include human resource under the community police service centre of Nepal Police (NP) and human resources trained on basic MFR and CSSR from Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and national and international NGOs. The community-based organizations shall provide continuous support to the development and capacity building of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams at the community level and would continuously upgrade them to be able to provide best service during an emergency. During a disaster when the general and medium level Search and Rescue (SAR) teams have not arrived or would take some time to arrive, the community level Search and Rescue (SAR) team will carry out preliminary work to save the lives of the people and support the general and medium level Search and Rescue (SAR) teams as per the need and in accordance with the local context. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/17 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 13.2 Light Search and Rescue (SAR) Teams: The Light Search and Rescue (SAR) Team will be stations in the Nepal Police (NP) premises in the regional, zone, district headquarters and municipalities. In the initial phase, there shall be one Light Search and Rescue (SAR) Team each in the regional offices of Nepal Police (NP) in the five development regions and one in the Metropolitan Police Office in Kathmandu valley. They will work on the basis of their working area. Likewise, a Light Search and Rescue (SAR) Team shall be established at the fire brigade office in Kathmandu Metropolis while fire control offices in other municipalities will be empowered with necessary equipments. The Light Search and Rescue (SAR) Team shall work within the mechanism of the security body and the members of the search and rescue team shall remain in a ready position round-the-clock. Members of the Search and Rescue (SAR) Team shall be mobilized in search and rescue (SAR) work without any arms. The Light Search and Rescue (SAR) Team in the concerned security body shall be trained as per the integrated search and rescue (SAR) ability, and in case the trained member is to be transferred elsewhere the only a full trained member will replace in the vacant post. In order to exchange urban Search and Rescue (SAR) capacity in case of large scale disaster, bilateral agreement shall be reached with possible countries. Along with this, the government shall move ahead with the process of determining necessary training module, materials and continuity for the capacity enhancement of all search and rescue teams in the country, and thereby implement the process of semi-skill and skill development process in a phase-wise manner. 13.3 National Medium Search and Rescue (SAR) Teams: In the preliminary phase, one national medium Search and Rescue (SAR) team each would be established in the Nepali Army (NA) and Armed Police Force (APF). The Search and Rescue (SAR) team to be established under the Nepali Army (NA) shall be stationed in the Nepali Army (NA) barrack at the Tribhuvan International Airport or in an appropriate location where Nepali Army (NA) is stationed. The medium Search and Rescue (SAR) team under the Armed Police Force (APF) shall be established at the Armed Police Force (APF) in Khumaltar, Lalitpur or at disaster management unit in other appropriate location. The Medium Search and Rescue (SAR) team will be active at times of a big disaster. However, in absence of a disaster the members of this team shall work as trainers in the training centres to produce necessary human resource of the nation or those required within the Search and Rescue (SAR) team or to produce personnel to replace vacant posts. This will lead to production of additional human resource for Search and Rescue (SAR) and there support the fulfillment of needs of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams to be established at other locations. In case of big disaster in Nepal, the medium Search and Rescue (SAR) under Nepali Army (NA) shall work in coordination with the Search and Rescue (SAR) group and as a contact point of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (ISRAG). National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/18 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) 14. Fiscal Management: The funds received from the national budget of the government and support from donor agencies shall be major financial source to establish and mobilize Search and Rescue (SAR) abilities as envisaged in this strategic action plan. The financial provisions through the aforementioned sources will lead to the establishment and operation of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams as per the strategic action plan. The Government of Nepal (GoN) shall allocate necessary budget for the mobilization of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams to be set up in the Nepali Army (NA), Nepal Police (NP) and Armed Police Force (APF). The financial and technical support received from donor agencies and national and international organizations will be utilized to set up, operate and build capacity of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. Some logistical goods, equipment and machinery items in the security bodies shall be translocated as per the need while setting up the office of the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. The Government of Nepal (GoN) shall bear the additional expenses to be incurred while mobilizing the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams. The support received from the donor agencies shall be utilized only in trainings and purchase of machine and equipments. The fiscal management and standards of expenditure shall be as outlined in the prevailing legal provisions and the standard of disaster management. 15. Monitoring and Evaluation The Home Ministry shall be responsible for carrying out all activities related to coordination, facilitation, monitoring and evaluation in order to ensure that works are being carried out in a regular and effective manner, and as outlined by the Natural Calamity Rescue Act, 2039. The National Emergency Operation Centre under the Home Ministry Disaster Management Division will serve as the Secretariat for monitoring and evaluation. For building search and rescue capacity in Nepal and for the effectiveness of the national strategic action plan, there shall be a Central Monitoring Committee at the central level as below. The Monitoring and Evaluation Committee shall monitor and evaluation the formation, operation, development and consolidation works of the search and Rescue teams and report to the Central Natural Disaster Relief Committee. Secretary, Home Ministry Major General, Nepal Army AIGP, Nepal Police AIGP, APF Joint Secretary, MoHA Joint Secretary, MoD Chief, Disaster Preparedness and Response Section Coordinator Member Member Member Member Member Member Secretary The central monitoring committee, while conducting its duty of monitoring and evaluation regarding Search and Rescue (SAR) teams, can seek the support of the United Nations agencies and other stakeholders if there is a need of specialized support. At the national level, the Central Natural Disaster Relief Committee (CNDRC) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) serve as a lead to overall Search and Rescue (SAR) National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/19 Unofficial Translation (DRAFT) capacity, while individual the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams are self-managed within their respective security forces (NA, NP & APF). The District Disaster Relief Committee (DDRC)/ the Chief District Officer (CDO)s will ensure the monitoring and evaluation of the Search and Rescue (SAR) performance and implementation at the district level. For this, on the basis of this action plan and National Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction (NSDRM) – 2066 (2009), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) will develop certain indicators for monitoring and evaluation. National Strategic Action Plan for Search and Rescue in Nepal, 2014/20
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