RAMBAN, JULY 08: Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Gool, Imtiaz, chaired an important Sub-Division Level Disaster Management and Coordination Meeting to review disaster preparedness today. The meeting focused on strengthening inter-departmental coordination and ensuring effective relief measures against natural hazards in the sub-division.
Officials attending included Tehsildar Harjeet Singh, SDPO Kuldeep Raj, Naib Tehsildar Inktikhab Ahmed, and several senior engineers from the Jal Shakti, PMGSY, and PWD departments, among others. Representatives from the Health, Police, and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) also participated, reflecting the collaborative effort to prepare for adverse weather conditions.
The meeting reviewed essential aspects of the existing disaster management plan. Participants assessed the availability of manpower, machinery, and essential commodities. They discussed the functioning of control rooms and communication systems, crucial for timely disaster response. Given the approaching monsoon season, Imtiaz directed all departments to stay on high alert.
The SDM specifically stressed the importance of proactive measures and seamless coordination among departments to effectively respond to emergencies. He instructed the departments of Jal Shakti, PWD, and PMGSY to identify vulnerable areas and prepare restoration teams and machinery for immediate action. The Health department must ensure adequate resources, including medicines and ambulances, are available at Community Health Centre (CHC) Gool and Primary Health Centres (PHCs).
“Ensuring that we are prepared is not just administration’s job; it’s a community effort too,” said SDM Imtiaz during the meeting. He urged the public to share information on safety measures and dos and don’ts during disasters.
Furthermore, the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) department was given the responsibility to maintain a buffer stock of essential rations. The Power Development Department (PDD) was reminded to prepare backup power systems, ensuring continuous supply during critical times.
Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars received direction to conduct regular inspections of disaster-prone areas, maintaining updated lists of at-risk locations. Imtiaz highlighted the significance of community involvement and dissemination of safety information.
As for rescue operations, police forces and the 23 RR were tasked with providing support. The representatives from Beacon Mahore were instructed to ensure roads are restored promptly in case of blockades due to landslides or floods.
In closing, SDM Imtiaz reiterated the administration’s primary objective: ensuring the safety of lives and property. He stated, “Effective coordination, timely responses, and public cooperation are vital in minimizing disaster impacts.” He assured that the administration stands fully prepared to tackle any situation arising from natural calamities.
