The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Doifode Sagar Dattatray who is also Chairman District Disaster Management Authority today convened a meeting of all concerned officers to review the preparations for disaster management in the district. Addressing the meeting, the DC said that disaster management is a sensitive issue which needs special focus of all the departments to tackle exigencies during difficult times.
He directed the officers for comprehensive documentation of Disaster Management Plan (DMP) and asked all the departments to utilize their core expertise for preparation towards disaster management.He also directed the concerned officers for mapping of disaster prone spots in the district so that a database will be created for rapid response towards these areas.
The DC received detailed feedback and suggestions from all the officers regarding effective management of the disasters in the district.Regarding hilly Tehsils, the DC directed the concerned officers to put them under special focus as these areas are more prone to mudslides, landslides and avalanches during winters.
To monitor and control the disaster management at district level, the DC nominated the ADDC Kupwara as Nodal Officer who will monitor the overall Disaster Management in the district. Besides, every department was directed to appoint a Nodal Officer for disaster management who shall be the first responders during the times of disaster incidents.
The DC also passed on spot directions for establishment of a Joint Emergency Operation Centre at District Headquarter to strengthen the disaster response system at district level. He directed the DSP Headquarter to take special interest for smooth establishment of the centre.
To ensure preparedness at grassroots level, the DC directed the ACP Kupwara to create a Disaster Voluntary Committee in every panchayat consisting of at least 10 persons headed by a member of the panchayat. He also directed for giving them proper training to tackle different disaster events.
The DC also reviewed other issues related to disaster management.ADDC Kupwara, Altaf Ahmad Khan; ADC Handwara, ASP Handwara, OC 109 RCC, ACR, SDM Karnah, ACP, CMO, CEO, and other concerned officers were present in the meeting.