KARACHI: Karachi Mayor Waseem Akhtar has inducted the Civil Defence Department – previously running under the Sindh government – into the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). Now the Civil Defence Department and the KMC’s Fire Brigade Department will function as a single entity. We would revamp the new entity on modern lines,” a statement issued Friday quoting the mayor as saying. Under the Sindh Local Government Act, 2013 and in accordance with the described compulsory functions, the KMC can take control of different civic bodies, previously held by the Sindh government. Moreover, Syed Tasneem Ahmed has been appointed the Director of the new entity. “I am confident that after this development I will work for the welfare of my department, besides citizens,” he asserted. Around 23 fire stations and 6 civil defence offices were functioning in city and after this move technical staff and officials of these sites would be held answerable to the newly appointed director. In routine days, the Civil Defence Department will impart civil defence training to students of school and colleges without any charge. During emergencies, it will work with the government and non-governmental bodies in rescue and other general public relief activities. The department’s major dealings will revolve around preparedness, response and recovery in order to lessen impact of disasters. Published in Daily Times, October 7th 2017.