Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar today reviewed department- and district-wise flood preparedness and heatwave management across Jammu Division. The meeting was attended by Managing Director JPDCL, Commissioner JMC, Deputy Commissioners from Jammu Division, Director ULB, Director Food Civil Supplies, Director Health, Chief Engineers of JPDCL, Jal Shakti, PWD, UEED and PMGSY, Joint Director Information (Jammu), Regional Officer NHAI and concerned officers from NHIDCL and Fire and Emergency Services.
During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner sought details of steps taken by district administrations and heads of departments regarding flood preparedness ahead of the forthcoming monsoon. He directed Deputy Commissioners to establish district-level control rooms for quick response, restoration of essential services and flood mitigation.
He asked them to constantly monitor water levels in rivers and other water bodies in their respective districts. The Deputy Commissioners of hilly districts were directed to deploy expert teams to assess slope stability in vulnerable areas and take necessary precautionary measures in advance.
Reviewing department-wise preparations, the Divisional Commissioner directed Commissioner JMC to complete the desilting and cleaning of nallahs and the drainage system in Jammu city. He directed that men and machinery be designated for vulnerable and low-lying areas to mitigate waterlogging and prevent flood-related damage.
Necessary directions were issued to the Mechanical Department, PMGSY, BRO, NHAI and NHIDCL to keep roads and bridges open for smooth connectivity. Director Health Services informed the Divisional Commissioner that sufficient medical supplies have been dispatched to district hospitals, PHCs and CHCs to prevent the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases.
The Divisional Commissioner also reviewed heatwave management and directed the Health Department to regularly issue advisories on heatwave precautions and dos and don'ts for the general public. Chief Engineer JPDCL informed that an adequate number of transformers, poles and conductors have been stocked at key locations and Quick Response Teams have been deployed to ensure immediate power restoration in the event of floods or heavy rains.
All Deputy Commissioners were directed to identify landslide- and flood-prone areas in their districts and prepare mitigation plans accordingly. They were also directed to conduct training for Civil Defence volunteers and organise mock drills with the participation of local communities.
Director Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs informed that adequate stocks of ration and essential commodities are being maintained across all districts of Jammu Division. The Divisional Commissioner directed all heads of departments to prepare a detailed flood preparedness plan and keep their men and machinery ready to undertake mitigation measures and restore public services at the earliest.