Dulloo reviews IRS implementation in J&K

Srinagar, Aug 14: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting to review the implementation of Incident Response System (IRS) in Jammu and Kashmir.The IRS is a structured and standardised mechanism aimed at replacing the ad-hoc measures with a well-coordinated, accountable and efficient disaster response framework.The Chief Secretary underscored the critical importance of resource mapping at the district level. He directed the Disaster Management Department to provide the necessary formats and guidelines to facilitate the process.Highlighting the UT’s vulnerability to natural and anthropogenic disasters, he called for full operational readiness through regular mock drills, periodic assessments and seamless coordination to ensure timely and effective response during emergencies.Principal Secretary, DMRR&R, Chandraker Bharti, informed that the primary objective of the IRS is to establish a unified chain of command and clearly defined roles for disaster response teams to minimise loss of life and property. He noted that the system comprises trained composite teams capable of handling all aspects of disaster response, thereby enhancing accountability and operational efficiency.About the key milestones in IRS implementation, it was revealed that a UT-level notification was issued on June 24, 2025, assigning roles and responsibilities to the Incident Response Team.Further, a one-day workshop was held on July 18, 2025, in Srinagar, for the officers to familiarise them with their roles under IRS. Additionally, the district-level training sessions are scheduled across the Kashmir and Jammu divisions from August 19 to October 6, 2025.Moreover, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines were circulated to the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) and concerned departments.On account of the effective implementation, it was informed that notification of IRS structure at the divisional and district levels is going to be done soon in consultation with the DDMAs and NDRF.The Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRR&R) said it remains committed towards fostering a resilient and disaster-ready Jammu and Kashmir through structured systems, capacity building and community engagement.