DC takes stock of post-rainfall situation

Kathua, Aug 28: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma Thursday chaired a meeting of concerned departments to review the situation arising in the aftermath of incessant rains and flash floods across the district.A statement issued here said that during the meeting, the DC directed the departments of PWD, PDD and PHE to ensure early restoration of road connectivity, power supply and water services in the affected areas. He instructed that all temporary restoration works be executed strictly under SDRF norms and guidelines. The DC also directed the PHE Department to provide water supply through tanker services in the affected areas until the pipelines are restored. The XEN PHE apprised the meeting about the status of drinking water supply and the arrangements being made to resume full-fledged services at the earliest. The DC asked the Chief Education Officer to make a detailed assessment of damages to school infrastructure and prepare a plan for repairs within the Rs 2 lakh ceiling under SDRF guidelines for quick restoration.The ADC Billawar and SDM Hiranagar joined the meeting through virtual mode. They informed the chair about the situation in their respective jurisdictions. The DC asked for systematic on-ground assessment of damages by stakeholder departments to prepare a comprehensive plan for permanent restoration. While reviewing the road connectivity scenario, the DC directed for the restoration of the Basohli–Mahanpur on war footing, with inputs from the Geological Survey of India for devising a permanent solution to frequent damages. He assured that funds for major restoration works will be projected to the government for timely release. The DC stressed close inter-departmental coordination and optimum use of men and machinery to mitigate the hardships being faced by the people affected by incessant rains and flash floods. Regarding the damage caused to the District AYUSH and JPDCL office buildings due to flash floods in Sahar Khad, the DC directed SE PWD to undertake timely protection works along the structures to prevent further damage. The meeting was informed that over 30 roads, including Katli Road, Dilwan Road, Kumri Kathera Road and several roads in Bani areas, have been marred by flash floods and landslides. The DC asked the field officers to remain stationed in affected areas to oversee restoration works and maintain constant communication with the district administration for quick response and support.