Ravinder Singh
A 46 member team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) reached Japan on March 28, 2011 to provide disaster relief and rescue assistance in the tsunami struck town of Onagawa. The NDRF team led by Shri Alok Avasthy, Commandant, comprised of 4 officers including a medical officer, 6 subordinate officers and 36 other ranks. The team was equipped with the latest state-of-the art gear for radiation monitoring, detection and personal safety equipments and were self contained in terms of nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) suits, emergency rations and essential medicines. The team carried with it Satellite phones for international calls and other communication equipments for the purpose of squad to squad communication during deployment.

The NDRF team also carried Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR) equipment and relief material like portable shelters, tents, blankets, medicines, water bottles etc. Operating from their base at Rifu-cho, the team worked in sub- zero temperatures and retrieved 07 dead bodies. In addition Japanese currency equivalent to Rs. 3 crores was recovered and handed over to Miyagi Police. The operation concluded on April 6, 2011.

After the conclusion of the operation the Indian team was felicitated by Japan’s Ex-Prime Minister Mr. Mori and other members of External Affairs Ministry. The Citizens of Onagawa lauded the effort of the Indian team. The local media too appreciated the dedication, commitment and sincerity of the NDRF team and expressed their thanks and gratitude for their work.

The Government of Japan had requested to the Government of India for the deployment of the NDRF team for search, rescue and relief in the wake of recent earthquake followed by Tsunami that devastated various parts of Japan.