Roads, power and water top priorities as Omar reviews winter preparedness

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level meeting to review the government preparedness in the event of snowfall and likely precipitation spell predicted over the coming weekend.

The meeting focused on assessing the readiness of departments across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions and fine-tuning response mechanisms to ensure minimal disruption to public life.

Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister observed that winter preparation plans in both divisions are largely on track but stressed that the real test lies in effective implementation on the ground. He noted that while precipitation is expected this weekend, it may not be as widespread as later in the season, providing the administration with a valuable opportunity to refine and strengthen preparedness plans.

“Winter preparedness plans are on pace, but the test of any plan is in its implementation. This

expected weather spell gives us time to refine our preparations before the more severe conditions set in,” the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting the core responsibilities of the government during winter, Omar Abdullah underlined that the administration would primarily be judged on three critical parameters: timely road clearance, uninterrupted electricity supply and availability of drinking water.

“These three—roads, electricity and water—are the ABC of our winter response. Everything else flows from them. People’s access to hospitals, mobility and daily life depend on how efficiently we manage these,” he asserted, directing all departments across both divisions to accord these sectors the highest priority once snowfall begins.

On the power sector, the CM directed strict monitoring of the availability of transformer oil. Noting that supplies have been increased this year, he cautioned that any reported shortage would likely be due to pilferage which needs to be curbed.

On healthcare preparedness, he acknowledged the limited availability of 4x4 ambulances but emphasised optimal utilisation of existing resources. “Not every area needs a 4x4 ambulance. In some places, ambulances fitted with proper chains are sufficient. The Health Department, in coordination with the Divisional Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners, must ensure that 4x4 ambulances are deployed strictly where they are most needed,” he said.

Reviewing urban preparedness, particularly in Srinagar, the Chief Minister laid emphasis on dewatering arrangements. He directed advance placement of mobile dewatering pumps in known vulnerable areas prone to waterlogging.

The Chief Minister also raised concerns regarding passenger facilities at Srinagar Airport during weather-related flight disruptions, especially as the bad weather coincides with the onset of the tourist season.

He directed the Divisional Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner to coordinate with airport authorities to ensure better management of basic amenities, particularly sanitation within the terminal.

On helicopter services for remote and snowbound areas, Omar expressed optimism about early operationalisation of Heli services for areas such as Kupwara and Bandipora.

About the Jammu division, the Chief Minister noted that snow preparedness is largely in place but cautioned about the vulnerability of roads that were only temporarily restored after heavy rains in September–October.

Jammu Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg presented detailed action plans outlining departmental preparedness in view of snow and rain in upper reaches and snowbound areas.