Amid rains, Mandi admn sets up disaster control room

Dipender Manta

Advertisement

Mandi, July 5

To ensure swift management during natural disasters, Mandi SDM Om Kant Thakur has announced the establishment of a control room at the subdivision level.

The objective of the control room is to provide immediate relief to residents affected by any calamity. In case of emergencies, they can dial 94181-91215 to contact the control room.

Talking about the initiative, the SDM said key officials — including tehsildars, naib tehsildars, kanungos and patwaris — were actively assessing damages on the ground, offering timely assistance to those affected.

Government personnel were fully equipped and mobilised to extend support to affected individuals, including the distribution of essential supplies like tarpaulins, he added.

“Regarding infrastructure safety, a recent inspection was conducted jointly by a high-level district team and officials of the NHAI at Pandoh Kanchi mod on the Kullu-Mandi National Highway. It was confirmed that the Kanchi mod remains safe for vehicular traffic, with necessary filling done to address minor soil sinking due to the recent spell of rain. According to the NHAI Project Director, there is no immediate threat to the structure,” the SDM said.

He added that machinery had been stationed between Mandi and Pandoh on the Kiratpur-Manali NH to promptly respond to any issues arising during the monsoons, ensuring minimal disruption to traffic.

“Volunteers have been mobilised to assist the administration during emergencies, drawing on their previous experience in providing crucial aid during disasters. They would closely collaborate with local authorities, functioning as an additional resource to support relief efforts effectively,” he said.

“Furthermore, departments have been briefed on disaster management protocols, with regular meetings being held to reinforce preparedness measures. Given the challenges posed by the rains, such as road closures and interruptions in essential services like electricity and water supply, efforts are underway to swiftly restore normalcy,” Thakur added.

The SDM cautioned both tourists and residents to avoid visiting Parashar Lake due to road closures on the main route to the lake, and risks associated with the alternative paths. Thakur reassured the community of the administration’s commitment to ensuring public safety and urged everyone to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities during this critical period.