Identify disaster-prone areas in district: Shimla DC

Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap today reviewed the preparedness for the coming monsoon season and directed all Subdivisional Magistrates (SDMs) to identify the most vulnerable areas for disasters under their jurisdiction, besides ordering them to ensure storage of essential items.

Chairing a meeting, the DC said the SDMs must act swiftly in times of disaster and that any delay in rescue or relief operations would not be tolerated. “In case of delay, the respective SDMs will be held accountable,” he added. The DC also directed the SDMs to strengthen the information network at the subdivisional level to ensure timely and accurate reporting to the administration. He also directed the SDMs to formulate a special disaster management plan for respective areas.

The DC directed the Public Works Department (PWD) and urban local bodies to ensure that drainage system functions properly during the rainy season within their respective jurisdictions.

The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), State Meteorological Department (MD), Dam Management authorities and Electricity Department were told to keep the communication system fully functional during any disaster in the monsoon season.

He said relief and rescue teams would be formed and deployed across the district. “Coordination with paramilitary forces during emergencies and immediate reporting of disaster-related damage should be ensured. The officials should ensure strict enforcement of safety rules for trekking and religious travel during the monsoon season” said the DC.

The DC appealed to NGOs and social workers to coordinate their efforts through the administration during disaster rehabilitation. He said the lack of coordination often leads to unequal distribution of aid. When NGOs work in line with government instructions, affected individuals are more likely to receive fair and uniform assistance.

The DC also chaired a separate review meeting on the Forest Rights Act (FRA). The meeting included a detailed discussion on various cases related to the FRA. It was decided that updated reports on these matters will be prepared and submitted to the committee concerned. Another special review meeting was also held to assess the status of pending revenue matters in the district. Chairing the meeting, the DC directed all SDMs to resolve these cases on priority. He expressed concern over long-pending cases, some of which date back several years, calling the situation alarming.