Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain on Saturday ordered the formation of Quick Response Teams (QRTs) in every sub-division to monitor ongoing flood protection works, conduct mock drills, ensure the functioning of sewage treatment plants (STPs), oversee de-silting of Buddha Dariya, and inspect sewerage systems and drains along National Highways, city and rural belt.
He directed all concerned departments to submit compliance certificates before the onset of the monsoon season. Presiding over a flood preparedness meeting, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for close coordination among departments to ensure swift action during emergencies.
He said there should be no delays in mobilising QRTs whenever required and directed control rooms to remain fully functional while teams regularly assess the ground situation. The DC said the QRTs should comprise officials from the Indian Army, NDRF, SDRF, Drainage Department, PWD, Water Supply Department, Transport Department, Health Department, Food and Civil Supplies, PSPCL, MGNREGA, Animal Husbandry, Agriculture Department, NHAI and other concerned agencies.
Jain further directed officials to inspect all critical points along the Sutlej River, including upstream and downstream stretches of Buddha Dariya in both urban and rural areas, at the earliest. He warned that there would be no leniency in preparedness efforts and all officers must submit compliance reports.
Negligence, he said, would invite action and be reported to higher authorities. The Municipal Corporation, Rural Development and Panchayat Department, and NHAI were instructed to inspect Vehicle Underpasses (VUPs) and Road Under Bridges (RUBs), ensuring that water pumping motors remain operational so that accumulated rainwater can be drained promptly to prevent flooding.
The Health Department asked to ensure adequate stock of medicines related to water-borne and vector-borne diseases ahead of the season, while the Water Supply Department was directed to make arrangements for potable water supply in case flood situations arise.
Animal husbandry department directed to ensure stock of fodder and vet medicines before the season starts. “The public must not suffer in any situation,” the Deputy Commissioner said clearly while directing departments to maintain full preparedness. Deputy Commissioner emphasized the administration’s commitment to preventing incidents during the upcoming monsoon season.
Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included ADCs Poonam Singh, Amit Bamby, Dr Narinder Singh Dhaliwal, SDMs Jasleen Kaur Bhullar, Upinderjeet Kaur Brar, Preet Inder Bains, Khushpreet Singh, Joint Commissioners Vineet Kumar, Tapan Bhanot, and heads of various departments.