SRINAGAR: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology, Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a high-level meeting to review flood preparedness and response mechanisms across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, DIG Rajiv Pandey, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, officers from the Irrigation & Flood Control Department, and other concerned officials.
Accompanied by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Minister Rana conducted an on-site assessment at the Flood Monitoring Station in Sangam and reviewed the water levels of River Jhelum. He directed officers to closely monitor vulnerable areas, maintain round-the-clock communication, and activate public announcement systems for timely alerts.
During the comprehensive review meeting with the Divisional Administration Kashmir, Minister Rana emphasized the need for a proactive and robust strategy to safeguard lives and minimize potential damage. He instructed officials to develop detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs), ensure all personnel are fully aware of their emergency roles, and expedite the preparation of flood mapping and inundation maps for each area to guide rapid response efforts.
The Minister also called for strengthened inter-departmental coordination, efficient resource mobilization, and clear communication channels for prompt rescue and relief operations.
Officials briefed Minister Rana on the contingency plans in place, highlighting that the SDRF and allied teams remain on high alert. They confirmed that 24/7 control rooms have been activated to monitor gauge stations and issue early warnings, and that adequate stocks of flood mitigation supplies and essential commodities are available at designated depots.
