RAMBAN, July 08: Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Gool, Imtiaz today chaired a pivotal Sub-Division Level Disaster Management and Coordination Meeting in Gool to review disaster preparedness. The meeting aimed to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and ensure effective relief measures for natural hazards such as floods, landslides, and cloudbursts in the sub-division.
The meeting brought together key officials including Tehsildar Harjeet Singh, SDPO Kuldeep Raj, Naib Tehsildar Inktikhab Ahmed, and Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO) Sanjay Sharma. Engineering representatives like AEE Jal Shakti Rakesh Soni, AEE PMGSY Naveed Aslam Khan, and AEE PWD Tanveer Ahmed attended, along with members from 23 RR Gool, Beacon Mahore, and Batote. Officials from Health, PDD, FCS&CA, SDRF, and the Police department also participated.
During this critical meeting, SDM Imtiaz conducted a comprehensive review of the existing disaster management plan. He evaluated the availability of resources, including manpower and machinery, and took stock of essential commodities. The functionality of control rooms and communication systems in the sub-division also came under scrutiny. Recognizing the impending monsoon season, the SDM instructed all departments to remain on high alert and ensure round-the-clock monitoring of areas susceptible to landslides and flash floods.
The SDM emphasized proactive measures and seamless coordination among departments to effectively address any emergency situations. He directed the Jal Shakti, PWD, and PMGSY departments to pinpoint vulnerable spots and maintain restoration teams and equipment ready for immediate deployment.
Health department representatives received instructions to guarantee that medicines, ambulances, and medical staff are available at CHC Gool and nearby Primary Health Centres (PHCs). The FCS&CA department was tasked with ensuring a buffer stock of ration, while PDD received directives to establish backup arrangements for power supply.
Furthermore, the SDM instructed Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars to regularly visit vulnerable areas, maintain updated lists of disaster-prone locations, and promote public awareness regarding safety measures during emergencies. He underscored the significance of community participation, urging locals to share vital information concerning appropriate responses during disasters.
The police and 23 RR were mandated to extend support for rescue and evacuation efforts, while Beacon representatives were instructed to ensure the prompt restoration of roads in the event of blockages.
In a strong statement, the SDM reiterated that safeguarding lives and property is the administration’s utmost priority. He emphasized that effective coordination, timely responses, and public cooperation are crucial in minimizing the impact of disasters. Assuring the public, he stated that the administration stands fully prepared to tackle any challenges posed by natural calamities.
