Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today offered to provide 50-60 acres of land free of cost for stationing a battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) permanently in the State.
In a communiqué to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Chief Minister apprised him of the recent tragedy in Jalandhar where a building collapsed resulting in unfortunate loss of lives, and injuries to many. Mr. Badal mentioned that the battalion of the NDRF stationed in Bathinda had been doing a commendable job in rescue operations. Earlier too they had very been helpful during the 2010 floods in the State. Mr. Badal also informed the Prime Minister that the battalion in Bathinda was a temporary arrangement and would be relocated to Himachal Pradesh in due course. In view of their crucial role in mounting an effective response during times of emergency, Mr. Badal demanded to have a battalion permanently stationed in Punjab and therefore urged Dr. Singh to direct the concerned authorities to initiate early action in this behalf.