Ganderbal, Nov 29: As the Meteorological Department predicts wet weather in the Kashmir Valley starting November 30, the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department Division Gund in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district is fully prepared for snow clearance operations. The department will mobilize men and machinery to ensure smooth passage on key roads during the winter.
Shabir Ahmad, Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) of R&B Division Gund, told Rising Kashmir that the department is responsible for snow clearance from Hariganiwan near Mamer Masjid to Sonamarg, with the operation divided into three crucial stages, Gund to Ganiwan. Gund to Gagangeer, Gagangeer to Sonamarg.
“We will be stationed three JCB machines in Sonamarg throughout the winter, ready to clear the snow on the same day it falls,” Ahmad said. He assured that additional manpower would be deployed if required to expedite the process.
Ahmad further elaborated on the coverage areas, stating, “In Sonamarg, we manage around four kilometers, including parking areas. In the Gund area, we clear around seven kilometers, and from Gund to Masjid Mamer, it’s about 6.5 kilometers.” He emphasized that in areas inaccessible to machines, manual labor would be employed to ensure the roads remain passable.
“We are fully prepared to tackle snow clearance operations throughout the winter to prevent any inconvenience to the public including Transporters,” Ahmad affirmed, ensuring that the department’s readiness would minimize disruptions for commuters and residents alike.
