Section 21: Functions of Local Authorities

(1) Once the State or any area thereof has been declared as a disaster affected area, the local authority shall subject to such directions as the Authority may give and under the supervision of the State Commissioner and the District Magistrate- (a) assist the Authority, the Commissioner and the District Magistrate; (b) ensure that the staff of the local authority is trained; (c) ensure that all resources related to disaster management are so maintained as to be ready for use; (d) ensure that all buildings and other structures in the local area comply with the specifications laid down in this behalf by the department of Government and the Authority; (e) carry out relief operations in the affected area subject to directions of the State Commissioner; (f) carry out reconstruction and rehabilitation activities in accordance with the guidelines framed by the Authority; (g) coordinate the preparation and the implementation of plan with those of the organizations of the State and stakeholders; (h) conduct disaster management drills periodically; and (i) provide such assistance to the Authority, the Commissioner and the District Magistrate and take such other steps as may be necessary for disaster management (2) Each local authority shall submit to the Authority and the Commissioner a copy of its disaster management plan proposed under sub-section (1) and any amendment thereto.