Himachal Pradesh Gears Up for Monsoon Season, Emphasizes Preparedness and Real-Time Information

As the monsoon season approaches in Himachal Pradesh, the state government is determined to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. In a meeting organized by the disaster management cell, Principal Secretary of Revenue, Onkar Chand Sharma, stressed the importance of preparedness and the timely dissemination of accurate information to prevent any loss of life or property.

During the meeting, which was attended virtually by all deputy commissioners, Sharma highlighted the significance of real-time information that is reliable and actionable in expediting emergency responses. The accumulation and dissemination of such information regarding water levels in rivers, dams, earthquakes, cloud bursts, lightning, and other natural disasters can prove vital in preventing casualties and minimizing damage.

To achieve this, the Principal Secretary emphasized the use of modern technologies, particularly the SACHET app developed by the National Disaster Management Authority. The SACHET app provides up-to-date weather-related alerts and guidance on appropriate actions during specific emergencies in particular locations.

Sharma directed the relevant departments and officials to collaborate with dam, power plant, and river management authorities to obtain timely information on changes in river levels, landslides, and dam water releases. This proactive approach aims to identify areas at risk and ensure preparedness levels are tested, with response teams promptly alerted. He also urged district administrations to monitor illegal mining activities, particularly along riverbeds, which can lead to road damage and fatal accidents due to landslides.

The Principal Secretary acknowledged that during the monsoon season, collapses of bridges and roads, flooding of drinking water schemes, and disruptions to water and electricity supplies can hinder transportation and cause inconvenience to residents. He instructed the concerned departments to identify vulnerable areas prone to such damages and take early and swift action to minimize risks. He also emphasized the need for well-maintained drains and properly serviced machinery for deployment in nearby risk-prone areas.

The meeting also addressed the inclusion of small dams in the state under the ambit of the Dams Safety Act, 2021. Future construction projects will adhere to the procedures outlined in the Act.

Sharma highlighted the presence of over 15,000 ‘Apda Mitra’ (disaster volunteers) and state volunteers, in addition to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Home Guards, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel. He emphasized the importance of alert teams equipped with modern equipment across Himachal Pradesh during the monsoon season. He called for frequent training and workshops for Apda Mitra and other volunteers to ensure they are well-prepared. Safety programs and mock drills conducted by NDRF and SDRF in schools and public places will also raise awareness and enhance preparedness.

Sharma emphasized the timely provision of aids, grants, and relief funds to affected individuals and directed officers to address any backlogs in this regard. Areas prone to risks should also ensure the advance stocking of essential supplies such as food items, blankets, sleeping bags, water storage tanks, and fogging machines to cater to emergency needs.

During the meeting, District Commissioners were instructed to feed and update data entries on the National Disaster Management Information System (NDMIS) for seamless financial processes.

With a focus on preparedness, real-time information, and efficient response systems, Himachal Pradesh aims to safeguard its residents and mitigate the impact of natural disasters during the upcoming monsoon season.