> Floods and cyclones play havoc with irrigation processes in the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh. On the other hand, the Rayal-seema and Telengana regions with semiarid to arid climatic conditions

Electrical utility transformers that use oil as an insulating barrier between the high and low voltage wire windings often fail because moisture and explosive gases build up in the oil, forming a

NATURAL disasters may be proposed by God, but they are disposed by man. Though it may not be possible to prevent such disasters, their devastation potential can be contained, depending on the state

The department of science and technology (DST) is to launch three missions to focus on the crucial issues of biotechnology and genetic engineering, improving prediction of natural disasters and

Nellore and Khammam have been chosen for an intensive command system (ICS) project as India disaster management support scheme.

The state government has decided to strengthen the civil defence system to tackle man-made and natural disasters. It is proposing to give two acres of land at the existing AP Fire Services Academy in Vattinagulapally to set up the Civil Defence Training Institute. The Centre will provide funds for construction of the institute. Sources in the home department said the plan was to merge the civil defence system with the fire and emergency services department. Initially, training will be given to volunteers from all major cities in the state. Following this, volunteers from villages will be given training. A senior official said the government wanted to make civil defence system the first response or first level defence network in case of any disaster or calamity. "Volunteers who are trained at the institute in Vattinagulapally will be paid a stipend during the training period,' said the official. "But they will be paid honorarium only when their services are utilised,' he added. At present, the civil defence in Hyderabad comes within the ambit of the city police commissionerate. Training is being imparted to volunteers in fire fighting, rescue operations, first aid and air raid precautions.

Ever since hurricane Katrina, it has been an open secret: the old, the poor and immigrants suffer most when natural disasters hit the US.

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