RAMBAN, JULY 08: Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Gool, Imtiaz, today chaired a significant Sub-Division Level Disaster Management and Coordination Meeting in Gool. The meeting aimed to review disaster preparedness, improve inter-departmental coordination, and ensure effective relief actions against natural hazards like floods, landslides, and cloudbursts in the region.
The meeting witnessed the active participation of various officials, including Tehsildar Harjeet Singh, SDPO Kuldeep Raj, and representatives from essential departments like Health, PDD, FCS&CA, SDRF, and Police. A total of 23 RR Gool and associated agencies from Beacon Mahore and Batote also contributed to the discussions.
During the session, attendees conducted a thorough review of the existing disaster management plan, focused on the availability of equipment and personnel, stock of essential commodities, and the functionality of control rooms and communication networks in the sub-division. The SDM urged all line departments to remain alert with the onset of the monsoon season, mandating continuous monitoring of high-risk areas susceptible to landslides and flash floods.
Coordination among departments is crucial, the SDM emphasized. He directed the Jal Shakti, PWD, and PMGSY departments to promptly identify vulnerable spots while ensuring that restoration teams and machinery are available for immediate use in crisis situations.
Moreover, the SDM instructed the Health department to ensure the availability of medicines, ambulances, and medical personnel at the Community Health Centre (CHC) Gool and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). The FCS&CA department received directives to maintain adequate buffer stocks of rations, while the PDD was tasked to implement backup power supply arrangements.
The SDM also emphasized the vital role of local officials, instructing Tehsildars and Naib Tehsildars to conduct regular assessments of vulnerable areas, maintain updated lists of disaster-prone regions, and educate the public on disaster preparedness measures.
Soliciting support from the community, he urged locals to actively participate in spreading awareness about safety protocols during disasters. Cooperation between police units and the 23 RR was also sought for rescue and evacuation operations, while Beacon representatives received directives to ensure the swift restoration of roads to prevent blockages during emergencies.
The safety of lives and property remains the administration’s top priority, the SDM reiterated. He underlined that effective coordination, timely response, and active public involvement are crucial elements to mitigate the impact of disasters effectively. The administration stands fully prepared to address any situation stemming from natural calamities.
