Dulloo directs robust inter-agency coordination for effective disaster response
Srinagar:In view of the floods and other natural calamities witnessed in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir last year, Chief Secretary Atal DullooTuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review the preparedness of various departments and agencies for dealing with disasters and emergencies during the forthcoming monsoon season.
The meeting was attended by senior Administrative Secretaries, Commandant SDRF, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu/Kashmir; IGP, Kashmir/Jammu; Chief Executive Officer ERA, Managing Director, JPDCL/KPDCL; Chief Engineer, Project Sampark/Beacon, besides all Deputy Commissioners who joined from their respective districts.
The Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of proactive planning and preparedness in disaster management, directing the Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Department (DMRR&R) and local authorities to implement preventive measures against natural disasters such as floods and landslides. He highlighted that effective disaster response relies on strong inter-agency coordination, urging collaboration among departments and emergency responders. Dulloo called for comprehensive mapping of vulnerable areas to identify hazard-prone locations and develop mitigation strategies. He stressed the need for safety audits of public infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, and instructed road construction agencies to ensure quick restoration of connectivity during emergencies, which is vital for rescue operations. The Chief Secretary also urged the swift completion of infrastructure restoration from previous disasters and requested detailed risk assessments from the Power Development Department to enhance service reliability during adverse weather. Administrative Secretaries provided updates on protective measures for critical infrastructure and the allocation of funds for safety gear and emergency equipment. Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary of DMRR&R, reported ongoing fire safety audits and the provision of satellite phones to enhance communication in vulnerable areas. Commandant SDRF, Imtiyaz Hussain Mir, advocated for strengthening district-level SDRF units and increasing Civil Defence volunteer mobilization. Divisional Commissioners presented their preparedness measures, including manpower deployment, emergency response strategies, and vulnerability mapping. They reported on the operationalization of flood control rooms and early warning systems, as well as the safety arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. Shreya Singhal, CEO of ERA, updated on the progress of the Emergency Operations Centre in Budgam, which is nearing completion. The Chief Engineers assured that necessary arrangements for road connectivity during weather disruptions are in place. The Chief Secretary reiterated the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging all departments to maintain high preparedness levels and ensure effective coordination during the monsoon season.
