Batman Provincial Disaster and Emergency Directorate (AFAD) conducted a comprehensive drill in the difficult and rugged terrain of Hasankeyf district in order to increase its response capacity against possible disasters. This special training, held on April 18, 2025, tested the teams' vital skills such as rope access in natural conditions, safe station establishment and controlled descent from high points.
The exercise, which was held with the participation of Batman AFAD Provincial Director Mehmet Karaaslan, aimed to maximize the adaptation of AFAD personnel to difficult terrain conditions and coordination between different teams. Nature walks and technical trainings held in the unique natural structure of Hasankeyf reinforced the teams' ability to make fast and accurate decisions on the field.
As required by the drill scenario, efforts were made to reach and safely evacuate people who were stranded on rough terrain or in need of assistance at high points. AFAD teams successfully implemented rope techniques to overcome difficult passages, create safe landing and exit points, and injured transportation methods. In this way, it was aimed to be prepared for similar difficulties that could be encountered in a real disaster.
Batman AFAD officials stated that the drill once again revealed the importance of critical interventions that must be carried out within seconds in times of disaster. It was emphasized that the coordination of the teams, their technical knowledge and skills play a vital role in such situations. The officials stated that they will continue their work without interruption with the vision of creating a more resilient and conscious society against disasters, and that such drills play a critical role in increasing the experience of their personnel and increasing the effectiveness of the intervention.
This successful exercise once again confirmed Batman AFAD's level of preparedness for disasters, and showed that the teams have the capacity for effective and professional intervention even in difficult conditions. It is clear that such practical training is of great importance in terms of minimizing loss of life and victimization in the event of a possible disaster.
