Rajouri, December 19: Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, today convened a meeting to review winter preparedness across the district, with special attention to snow-prone areas and ensuring uninterrupted essential services during the winter season.
The DC reviewed the status of PMGSY and R&B roads in snow-bound areas and directed authorities to issue tenders for snow clearance well in advance. He emphasized the need for adequate manpower and machinery to ensure timely operations and prevent road disruptions. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) was also instructed to make necessary arrangements on roads under its jurisdiction, including the National Highway.
Concerned departments were asked to clear blocked drains before snowfall to avoid waterlogging and protect infrastructure. The Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Power Development Departments were directed to ensure smooth water and electricity supply throughout the winter months.
On fuel and emergency preparedness, the Forest Department was tasked with meeting firewood requirements for residents, while all departments were asked to establish fire emergency measures, keeping in mind the risk of forest fires. The DC also stressed adequate stocking of ration and LPG supplies, particularly in remote and snow-bound areas.
For health preparedness, the Health Department was asked to maintain an updated list of pregnant women across the district, ensure regular contact through field staff, and make arrangements at health centres in remote areas to facilitate institutional deliveries.
To ensure effective coordination, the DC instructed Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs) to review winter preparedness in their respective areas and ensure close cooperation among all departments. A control room has also been established at the DC Office to enable the public to reach the administration in case of any emergencies during the winter season.
The meeting was attended by ADDC Malikzada Sheraz ul Haq, ADC Chander Prakash, Executive Engineer PHE Sudesh Kumar, Assistant Director FCS&CA Rohit Kumar, CMO Manohar Lal Rana, Executive Engineers PMGSY Shahid Choudhary and Kotranka Mohammad Qasim, along with representatives from BRO and other district and sectoral officers.
