Flood Response and Evacuation Plan: NDRRMC Strengthens Flood Preparedness in Port Louis

In line with the ongoing initiative to develop and implement a Flood Response and Evacuation Plan (FREP) for downtown Port Louis, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre (NDRRMC), under the auspices of the Prime Minister’s Office, organized an awareness and training program on floods in Port Louis on Friday, November 7, 2025.

The aim was to familiarize socio-economic operators and flood officials with the FREP while enhancing community preparedness. The event also sought to encourage informed decision-making based on risk, particularly among daily commuters, focusing on flood-prone areas such as La Poudrière Street and the Caudan Waterfront.

The program included three main components: awareness, demonstration, and practical engagement, all designed to improve flood preparedness, enhance coordination, and strengthen community resilience in the central business district of Port Louis.

Awareness sessions featured presentations from key institutions such as the Land Drainage Authority (LDA), the Mauritius Meteorological Services (MMS), the Mauritius Police Force (MPF), the National Coast Guard (NCG), the Special Mobile Force (SMF), and the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS). The presentations covered the evacuation plan for the city center, the land drainage master plan, police actions during floods, diversion routes, and emergency responses. These were complemented by informational banners, brochures, and visual displays of relevant equipment.

Regarding the demonstration component, equipment and informational materials were showcased, presenting rescue tools and emergency intervention gear, as well as banners and awareness materials from various participating agencies. The goal was to raise awareness about flood preparedness and familiarize participants with the mechanisms in place during emergencies.

The day-long activity concluded with practical hands-on sessions organized outdoors at the Jardin de la Compagnie. Participants were divided into rotating groups for hands-on training led by the SMF, NCG, MFRS, and the Mauritius Red Cross. The sessions covered essential flood response techniques, including rescue operations, injured evacuation, the use of rescue equipment, and first aid.