Shimla DC directs schools to conduct structural inspection

With heavy rainfall continuing across the district, Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap has directed all school managements to immediately conduct structural inspections of their buildings. He said only structurally unsafe schools will be closed, and in such cases, online classes must continue without disruption. Schools have been advised to ensure their digital learning systems are fully functional.

Advertisement

For now, all schools across Shimla district will remain open. However, the DC clarified that Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) are empowered to shut schools in their respective areas if disaster-related concerns arise. He issued these directions while chairing a review meeting on disaster preparedness amid the ongoing monsoon season.

The DC acknowledged that relentless rainfall has caused significant damage across parts of the state, with Shimla district also impacted. However, he assured that the administration is fully alert and ready to handle any emergency. All excavation and slope-cutting areas are to be covered with tarpaulin sheets to prevent soil erosion and safeguard both public and private property.

To ensure a rapid emergency response, Kashyap has directed that teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards, and Police remain on 24x7 alert. These teams will be deployed at five strategic locations: near the Lift in Shimla, the Mall Road Police Help Desk, Sunni, Parala, and Rampur.

The district has also trained around 200 ‘Aapda Mitras’ (disaster volunteers) who, along with local youth volunteers, will aid in relief and rescue operations.

Further, SDMs have been asked to identify suitable locations for temporary rehabilitation shelters equipped with essential amenities to house people displaced during disasters. The District Controller of Food and Civil Supplies has been instructed to maintain sufficient food stock, while the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) will deploy mobile medical teams — comprising two to three doctors per region — to ensure timely healthcare services. The public has been strongly advised not to rely on unverified social media posts.