She said the role of nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) and resident welfare associations (RWAs) is crucial in overcoming loss of life and property during disasters. Dikshit was delivering a valedictory address to the concluding session of a workshop on “Integrating Earthquake Risk Mitigation with Hospital Facilities Planning”, organised jointly by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority, Swiss Re and GeoHazards International, at Delhi Secretariat. She also released a booklet on disaster management.

The chief minister said it is imperative to ensure proper arrangements to face any challenge posed by disasters in a city that has a population of over 15 million people. A number of high-rise buildings are also coming up in various parts of the city. Dikshit said Delhi comes under Seismic Zone-IV, which requires it to be ready to meet any situation arising out of earthquakes. Hospitals must have all the required facilities to ensure the treatment of a large number of wounded persons.

She called upon the Home Guards, Civil Defence and Scouts & Guides to render cooperation.