Chandigarh people warned against venturing near water bodies

Taking into consideration the heavy rainfall and waterlogging across the city, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), under the Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, has issued an advisory to ensure public safety.

Addressed to the general public, civic authorities, private institutions and government/semi-government offices, the DDMA strictly advised the general public not to venture into water bodies such as lakes, choes and ponds during monsoon to avoid any untoward incident.

The authority directed the civic authorities, namely the Municipal Corporation and the Engineering Department, to immediately remove fallen trees from roads, streets and public pathways. They have been to undertake immediate repair of caved-in roads. The Chandigarh Traffic Police will cordoned off these spots to prevent accidents. The MC has been instructed to ensure that all manhole covers and road gullies are properly fixed in place to prevent mishaps.

The Health Department has been advised to make adequate arrangements for timely medical treatment in case of electrocution, drowning and other monsoon-related emergencies.

The Traffic Police have been told to ensure that waterlogged underpasses, subways and bridges are cordoned off and traffic is diverted to alternative routes.

The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the citizens to remain vigilant and extend full cooperation with the Administration. In case of any emergency, residents may immediately contact the Emergency Helpline Number 112, which is operational 24x7.

Civil defence volunteers deputed at vulnerable spots

Chandigarh: Civil defence volunteers are playing a crucial role in assisting the UT Administration to ensure the safety of residents living in low-lying areas as well as along the seasonal rivulets. “Their presence has greatly supported a smooth functioning of essential services and the overall disaster management efforts being undertaken across the city,” said Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav. He said the civil defence volunteers were actively deployed at strategic and vulnerable points, including underpasses, low-lying areas and along the seasonal rivulets such as Sukhna Choe and N-Choe, which often witness heavy inflow of water during monsoon.

These volunteers are also extending support in waterlogged stretches in residential colonies, marketplaces and key road junctions to help citizens commute safely, he added. Working hand in hand with the Chandigarh Traffic Police, the volunteers are assisting in regulating traffic. They guide commuters away from unsafe spots, thus saving precious lives. — TNS