Srinagar, Jun 25: The state government has asked the divisional administration of Kashmir to remain on high alert in view of the inclement weather forecast for the next one month.
This follows the meeting chaired by Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan to review the preparedness of the administration after receiving July weather forecast report from India Meteorological Department.
As per the minutes of the meeting, Divisional Commissioner was informed that the administration has to be on high alert to meet the challenges arising out of the “adverse weather conditions, in order to prevent recurrence of the situation that was witnessed in September 2014 floods”.
“The chair reiterated that a mock drill/exercise in this regard needs to be done and there should be no let off by any officer in addressing this situation,” reads the minutes of meeting.
During the meeting, the deputy commissioners apprised Khan that basic groundwork like identification of vulnerable areas, identification of rescue centers and preparation of evacuation plan, has been conducted.
Chief Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control told the meeting that the water holding capacity of river Jehlum, as compared to 2014 floods, has been increased and measures are being undertaken to further enhance the retaining capacity of flood spill channel.
“He requested that the Bailey Bridge temporarily constructed at the flood channel near Barzulla Bhagat needs to be removed in order to avoid any untoward incident in case the water level rises,” the minutes reads.
The district development commissioners have been directed to identify the low lying villages/areas, which may get inundated due to floods and caterogise them as per the threat of floods.
“DCs shall also identify rescue centers and buildings where the affected population shall be temporary relocated in the event of floods, and shall prepare evacuation plan for the purpose,” it reads.
Director Tourism, Kashmir, has been directed to liaise with the President JK Shikara Owners Association and direct him to provide Shikaras at a short notice in the eventuality of floods.
Director Meteorological Department, Sonam Lotus said it was difficult to predict on what day there would be rainfall. “But there will be rainfall in the month of July,” Lotus said.
Lotus however said people should not worry about any possibility of floods.
