Disaster Preparedness: Water search and rescue drill conducted in Bago

A water search and rescue drill was held on the Bago River on July 10. The exercise was jointly conducted by the Fire Services Department, the Red Cross Society, volunteer groups, and social organizations to strengthen emergency response capabilities.

Bago Region Chief Minister U Myo Swe Win attended the event and made a speech, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery to reduce the impact of natural disasters. He noted that Bago Region experiences annual flooding due to the Bago, Sittaung, and Ayeyawady rivers, making regular rescue training essential.

He also urged authorities and the public to remain prepared and actively participate in disaster prevention efforts. The drill included demonstrations of rescue boat operations and water rescue techniques for drowning victims.

Bago Region has one regional water rescue unit with 116 personnel and rescue teams in all 28 townships, bringing the total strength to 1,096 members who regularly conduct disaster preparedness, rescue, and public awareness training.