Flood-preparedness stepped up in district;

Hoshiarpur/ June 19/Daljeet Ajnoha : Under instructions from Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain, the district administration has stepped up preparations to tackle any possible flooding. A meeting of department heads was held on Thursday at the District Administrative Complex, chaired by District Revenue Officer-cum-Nodal Officer (Flood Management) Amandeep Chawla.
Addressing the meeting, Amandeep Chawla said the monsoon season has begun and all concerned departments must complete their preparations in good time to meet any emergency effectively. He said a district-level flood control room has been set up in Room No. 138 of the District Administrative Complex and a helpline has been activated at 01882-220412.
He directed that availability of boats and other necessary resources be ensured at the sub-division level, and that any damaged boat be repaired on priority. He also asked that divers be identified in advance. He said tehsil-level flood control rooms should be established and their details communicated to the Deputy Commissioner’s office. The civil surgeon was instructed to maintain stocks of essential medicines and ensure health preparedness, the animal husbandry department to arrange fodder for livestock, and the drainage department to ensure proper water discharge arrangements.
The School Education Department was asked to inspect school buildings and put necessary arrangements in place, while the Public Works Department was directed to maintain readiness concerning roads and other infrastructure. All other departments were told to remain vigilant and coordinate closely.
Amandeep Chawla added that Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain has issued clear instructions that any official or employee involved in disaster management must keep their mobile phones switched on at all times so that they can be contacted immediately when required to facilitate effective relief and rescue operations. Officers from various departments attended the meeting.