DC Anantnag chairs comprehensive Meeting on Winter Preparedness
ANANTNAG, OCTOBER 29(PTK): Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, today chaired a comprehensive meeting of concerned officers at Dak Bungalow, Khanabal, Anantnag, to review winter preparedness and ensure timely arrangements across all departments.
Emphasizing the need for close interdepartmental coordination and a proactive approach, the DC stressed the timely implementation of mitigation measures to effectively address winter-related challenges and minimize inconvenience to the general public.
The meeting discussed the prioritization of roads for snow clearance, uninterrupted power supply, timely replacement of damaged Distribution Transformers (DTs), and adequate decentralized buffer stocking of essential materials.
The Chair was informed that the total road length under P1 and PE categories is 1,005 km, while the total road length is 1,542 km.
The DC directed the concerned departments to ensure the pre-positioning of snow clearance machinery at strategic locations to facilitate timely snow clearance and maintain road connectivity during the winter season.
Comprehensive arrangements for uninterrupted water and power supply, healthcare facilities, relief and rescue operations, and snow clearance of roads were also reviewed.
The Chair was apprised that adequate stocks of essential commodities and medical supplies had been arranged and that response teams were kept ready to address any eventuality arising from adverse weather conditions.
The DC directed the concerned departments to ensure the availability of safety gear for frontline staff, strict adherence to duty rosters, improved ambulance services, particularly for expectant mothers and terminally ill patients, and adequate heating arrangements in hospitals and health centres across the district.
He stressed the need to put in place robust mechanisms for interdepartmental coordination, prompt response to emergencies, and timely restoration of essential services during the winter season.
The Deputy Commissioner also directed the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to remain fully prepared to respond to any emergency arising from heavy snowfall, severe weather conditions or other natural exigencies.
He stressed the importance of maintaining readiness for rescue and relief operations, particularly in vulnerable and far-flung areas.
Reviewing the preparedness of the Power Development Department, the Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned Superintending Engineer of KPDCL to ensure regular and uninterrupted electricity supply during winter.
He emphasized the need for advance maintenance of power infrastructure and prompt redressal of power-related complaints, particularly in areas vulnerable to weather-related disruptions.
The Superintending Engineer, Jal Shakti Department, was directed to ensure the availability of safe drinking water throughout the winter season and take advance measures to address any disruption in water supply caused by freezing temperatures or adverse weather conditions.
The Chief Medical Officer informed that there are more than 60 ambulances available and was directed by chair to ensure the adequate availability of essential and life-saving medicines in all health institutions across the district.
He was also asked to ensure the availability of doctors, paramedical staff and other necessary healthcare personnel at their respective hospitals and health centres to provide timely medical assistance to the public during emergencies.
Telecom service providers were directed to ensure uninterrupted and hassle-free communication services during the winter season, enabling the public and emergency response agencies to remain connected during adverse weather conditions.
The DC directed officers to remain readily available to the public and ensure the timely redressal of grievances throughout the winter season.
The public has been advised to contact the 24×7 District Control Room for assistance during the winter season on 9697982527, 9906225209 & 7780885759.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Executive Officer, Pahalgam Development Authority; Superintending Engineers of Jal Shakti, Public Works Department and KPDCL; Sub-Divisional Magistrates; Tehsildars; representatives of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO); Executive Engineers of Flood Control, Irrigation, Mechanical Engineering and PMGSY; representatives of BSNL, Airtel and Jio; Assistant Regional Transport Officer; Assistant Director, Food; SDRF officials; Chief Executive Officer, Municipal Council; and Executive Officers of various Municipal Committees, among other concerned officers and officials.(PTK)
