Ever wondered who ensures the safety and well-being of Jordan’s citizens? It is the General Directorate of Civil Defence. This organization plays a crucial role in protecting lives and property. It provides emergency services throughout the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence history began in 1956. It operates under the Ministry of Interior’s jurisdiction. The agency’s headquarters are located here in Amman. The Civil Defence Directorate has grown significantly since its establishment.
Back in the era of the emirate, civil teams within the municipalities handled civil defense tasks. The need for a dedicated body arose in 1948. This led to the formation of a Civil Defence Authority. Civil defense committees were then established in 1954.
King Hussein bin Talal recognized the importance of protecting citizens. In 1956, he issued Royal Directives to establish the Civil Defence Directorate. The Civil Defence Law No. 12 was enacted in 1959. Initially, the directorate was part of public security. It became a separate entity in 1970.
The Civil Defense Department gained financial independence in 1978. Civil Defense Law No. 18 of 1999 replaced the previous law. In late 2019, the General Directorate of Civil Defence merged with the Public Security Directorate.
A Royal Decree in 2020 further solidified this merger. It defined the duties of the Civil Defence Directorate. These duties include carrying out fire and rescue operations. The directorate also provides ambulance services. It trains citizens and prepares qualified personnel. Providing necessary equipment and communication tools is also vital.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence provides warnings for air strikes and disasters. It ensures public shelters are ready. Its tasks include detecting explosives. They identify and mark dangerous areas. The directorate contributes to detecting chemical or radiation leaks.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence recommends approvals for fuel stations. It does the same for gas distribution agencies and warehouses. It determines preventive measures for manufacturing and storing hazardous materials. The directorate trains volunteer teams from the public and private sectors. It represents Jordan in international organizations and conferences.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence evaluates building plans. They work with municipalities to ensure fire prevention. It also monitors buildings after licenses are issued. The directorate ensures the availability of self-protection means for shops and industries. It recommends licensing for professions related to protective equipment.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence operates with an annual budget of approximately $300 million. The Civil Defence Directorate has many activities for disaster risk reduction. They insert disaster risk reduction into school and university curricula. They conduct evacuation exercises. The directorate cooperates with the United Nations and UNESCO. They address problems resulting from disasters and climate change.
The Civil Defence Directorate stands as a pillar of safety. It protects the citizens and properties within Jordan. Its dedication and comprehensive approach make it a crucial asset to the nation. The directorate’s evolution reflects its commitment to meeting the changing needs of the country.