DMRR&R’s 5-Point Disaster Strategy: CS Sets Timelines for Distt Resilience in J&K

Srinagar : Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, Monday assessed the progress achieved by the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRRR) on the implementation of its comprehensive five-pronged roadmap for strengthening the disaster management framework across the districts of J&K.
The meeting besides ACS PWD; Principal Secretary, Home; and Commandant, SDRF was attended by Commissioner Secretary, H&UDD; Divisional Commissioners; Secretary, RDD; Commissioner, JMC/SMC; Director, IMD; Chief Engineer, I&FC; Representatives from BRO, NHAI, NHIDCL and other concerned officers. Deputy Commissioners attended the meeting through virtual mode.
During the meeting Chief Secretary thoroughly reviewed the Action Taken Report (ATR) regarding disaster risk reduction initiatives, assessing the progress made by various departments. He emphasized that investments in disaster risk reduction are essential for minimizing future economic losses, protecting critical infrastructure, and saving lives. The Chief Secretary urged all departments to adopt a collaborative approach to enhance disaster resilience in Jammu and Kashmir, which is particularly vulnerable to various natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides. The Principal Secretary of DMRR&R, Chandraker Bharti, reported significant advancements in priority initiatives, including the development of Standard Operating Procedures under the Disaster Management Act and the preparation of Detailed Project Reports for landslide mitigation. He also mentioned the finalization of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Geological Survey of India to establish a landslide forecasting system and highlighted progress in Digital Terrain Modelling and flood protection measures. A comprehensive roadmap was presented, structured around five strategic pillars aimed at transforming disaster management into a resilient, data-driven system. This roadmap includes the creation of a GIS-based Multi-Hazard Risk Atlas, strengthening critical infrastructure, deploying modern technologies, enhancing emergency preparedness, and promoting localized early warning systems. The Chief Secretary concluded by stressing that building disaster resilience is integral to sustainable development and called for collective efforts from all stakeholders to create a safer, climate-resilient Jammu and Kashmir capable of effectively managing future disasters.