STATEMENT
The Importance of Civil Defence in National Security
By M. A. Ghani, M.L.A.
There exists a considerable misunderstanding about Civil Defence among our citizens. Many people mistakenly believe that Civil Defence is a wartime organization only, needed when war threatens. Others assume that Civil Defence would be obsolete in the event of atomic or hydrogen bomb attacks. Unfortunately, these misconceptions are held even by some of our leaders. Dispelling these views is crucial for the country’s security.
Civil Defence in Peacetime Emergencies:
The belief that Civil Defence operates solely in wartime is outdated. Civil Defence personnel are now involved in addressing peacetime emergencies such as floods, fires, famine, and earthquakes. In an atomic or hydrogen bomb attack, there would likely be casualties at the fringes of the damaged area, requiring immediate aid to prevent panic and uphold public morale. Without prompt Civil Defence intervention, morale could collapse, potentially leading to defeat on the home front, rendering victory at the war front meaningless. Field Marshal Montgomery once noted that a collapse in the home front could lose a war as surely as defeat in battle. Our own C-in-C, General Ayub Khan, has similarly encouraged the youth to prioritize Civil Defence training for the sake of national security.
Civil Defence as Part of National Defence:
Today, Civil Defence is an essential part of our country’s defence system, as much as the Army, Navy, and Air Force. As an independent nation with a robust military force, we should also strengthen our home front through a well-organized Civil Defence system. Like other peace-loving nations, we are committed to maintaining peace, but we must be prepared. Preparation must start now.
State of Civil Defence in Pakistan:
Civil Defence began in this region around 1951, but in the four years since, the organization’s presence has largely been limited to an annual "Civil Defence Week." Apart from this, the organization is nearly invisible, with no signs of active practice or preparedness, such as rescue exercises or blackouts.
Challenges in Civil Defence Training:
Two Civil Defence schools exist here—one managed by the central government, the other by the provincial government. However, their work is limited to routine classes, exams, and results. The staff could do more by establishing mobile training centers, engaging the public, and promoting Civil Defence awareness. However, they lack the necessary equipment to conduct these activities effectively. The reason for the lack of essential equipment, especially items not available domestically, is unknown.
Recommendations for Strengthening Civil Defence:
To ensure readiness, I propose several key steps that should be taken immediately:
- Expand the Civil Defence (CD) Directorate on the model of the Ansar Organization.
- Create a unified directorate for Civil Defence, Air Raid Precautions (A.R.P.), Ansar, and Fire Services to improve coordination and service efficiency.
- Implement the government-approved 5-year Civil Defence Plan.
- Introduce compulsory Civil Defence training in educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and universities.
- Organize regular provincial conferences for Civil Defence officers and personnel at district headquarters to build camaraderie and unity.
- Promote Civil Defence through effective propaganda in classified towns.
- Provide adequate facilities for the provincial Civil Defence school and hire qualified staff.
- Authorize daily allowances for voluntary trainees and travel allowances for trainees from Dacca.
- Utilize Civil Defence officers and volunteers during peacetime.
- Establish a pay scale for Civil Defence personnel.
The Need for Urgent Action:
Civil Defence is currently neglected by both the authorities and the public. If this negligence continues, we may face severe consequences in an emergency. It is essential to mobilize public opinion to pressure the authorities into strengthening Civil Defence while we still have time