Strengthening National Readiness for Flood Emergencies Through Practical Training

Strengthening Mauritius’ readiness to face flood-related emergencies was the focus of the National Flood Prevention and Preparedness Campaign 2026–2027, launched, this morning, in Port Louis by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Centre (NDRRMC), under the aegis of the Prime Minister’s Office, in collaboration with Landscope Mauritius.

The programme featured practical demonstrations and training sessions by various first responders near the South Subway Entrance at Port Louis Waterfront. These covered basic rope rescue techniques, freeing people trapped in vehicles, evacuating casualties during floods and administering first aid.

The Lord Mayor of Port Louis, Ms Christelle Pondard; the Officer-in-Charge of the NDRRMC, Mr Premanand Budhoo; the Chief Executive Officer of Landscope Mauritius, Mr Manilall Seetohul; and other personalities were also present.

In his address, Mr Budhoo highlighted the risks posed by torrential rainfall and flash floods, which can threaten lives, damage infrastructure and disrupt livelihoods. He emphasised that preparedness must begin well before an emergency occurs and called for greater awareness at household and community levels. Referring to this year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction theme, ‘Resilience Starts at Home’, he urged the public to take flood warnings seriously, understand the risks in their localities and familiarise themselves with evacuation arrangements.

He further underlined that effective emergency response requires well-equipped and adequately trained first responders, as well as close coordination among the agencies concerned. Mr Budhoo explained that practical exercises enable responders to strengthen their skills, become familiar with rescue equipment and build the confidence needed to make sound decisions under pressure. He also called for regular training, the review of emergency plans and sustained public awareness, stressing that preparedness must be an ongoing effort to minimise flood risks and protect communities.

For his part, Mr Seetohul highlighted the measures undertaken by Landscope Mauritius to reduce the risk of flooding at Caudan Waterfront, notably the upgrading of the north and south underpasses to limit water ingress, the installation of flood barriers and improvements to the drainage system. He also reassured that arrangements have been made to provide safe shelter for people in the area in the event of rising water levels.