HP Government Urges DCs  to Prepare for Monsoon, Orders Migrants to Evacuate Riverbanks..

SHIMLA: With monsoon approaching, the Himachal Pradesh government is stepping up preparations to avoid a repeat of last year’s disasters.

Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena has directed Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of Shimla, Mandi, Sirmaur, Chamba, and Kullu to identify locations for National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) units. The goal is to have these units in place before the heavy rains begin.

During a review meeting on monsoon readiness, Saxena emphasized the importance of relocating migrant laborers living near riverbanks to safer areas.

This is to prevent tragedies like those that occurred last year. Additionally, he instructed the Civil Supplies Corporation to stock up on food grains and essentials, ensuring they are available at fair prices during any potential disaster.

The government is also coordinating with the Central Water Commission (CWC) and dam authorities to monitor rising water levels. Meetings with representatives from major power projects are planned to ensure machinery and systems are ready for any flood-like situation.

BSNL has been asked to provide satellite phones to all subdivisions to maintain communication during emergencies. DCs of the most affected districts from last year, like Mandi, Kullu, and Kangra, have been told to inspect vulnerable areas and make preparations to move residents if necessary. The government also plans to crack down on illegal mining and slope excavation, which exacerbates flooding and landslides.

The Meteorological Department predicts a normal monsoon season from June to September this year, giving hope that with these precautions, the state can avoid major incidents. 

Representatives from various departments, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Public Works Department (PWD), and BSNL, were present at the meeting, reflecting a coordinated effort to brace for the monsoon.

Mega Mock Drills in Himachal 

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), in partnership with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), conducted extensive mock drills today at 85 locations across the state to enhance disaster response capabilities.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi supervised the exercise from the Command Centre at the HP Secretariat, connecting with Deputy Commissioners via video conferencing.

He directed departments to ensure prompt availability of essential services like electricity, water, and medical aid during emergencies.

Negi underscored the drills' aim to streamline communication and response times during disasters, reducing risks to life and property.

He stressed the need for satellite phones in disaster-prone regions such as Kullu, Manali, Mandi, and Lahaul, to maintain communication during crises.

The Minister highlighted the importance of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) for quick dissemination of mobile alerts and safe relocation of residents.

He advocated for regular awareness programs, new weather stations, and advanced sensor technology to detect avalanches, emphasizing the need for more SDMA personnel.

Special Secretary (Disaster) D.C. Rana discussed key disaster management tools like Sachet, RMS Relief, Samarth, Meghdoot, Damini, Mausam, and Drone Mapping. He urged timely reports from district authorities on the drills.

Senior Advisor (Retired) NDRF Major General Sudhir Bahal and other officials offered insights on overcoming district-level disaster challenges.