SRINAGAR: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, highlighted the critical need for 100 percent attendance of doctors and paramedical staff at all district and sub-district hospitals to effectively manage emergencies caused by heavy snowfall.
During a video conference with officials across Jammu and Kashmir, convened to assess snow clearance operations and the restoration of essential services, CM Abdullah reviewed the ongoing response to the disruptions.
The meeting, was held at the video conference hall in Ganderbal and attended in person by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Shyambir, ADC Ganderbal, and other senior district officials. Chief Secretary, Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu, and Deputy Commissioners from all districts joined the meeting via video link.
The snowfall, which began yesterday, has severely impacted normal life across several districts in the Kashmir Valley. Deputy Commissioners provided updates on snow clearance, restoration of power and water supplies, and emergency responses to the adverse weather.
The Chief Minister directed district officials to personally supervise snow clearance operations, ensuring photographic evidence of cleared areas to prevent freezing and road hazards. He urged officials to deploy adequate manpower and machinery and emphasised a proactive approach to mitigating further challenges.
Regular updates, at two-hour intervals, were mandated to be shared with the Chief Minister’s and Chief Secretary’s offices. According to the Chief Engineer of Public Health Engineering (PHE), 90% of the water supply across the valley has been restored, while efforts continue to address the remaining 10%.
Meanwhile, the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu confirmed that power and water supply remain unaffected in Jammu districts. The Chief Secretary assured that electricity restoration efforts are progressing steadily and that district hospitals are operating smoothly.
Special instructions were issued to the Deputy Commissioner of Budgam to coordinate with airport authorities to assist stranded tourists and arrange transportation, if necessary. Additionally, the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir affirmed the availability of sufficient stocks of essential commodities in all districts.
Commending officials for their dedication, the Chief Minister urged them to maintain vigilance, act swiftly, and address the needs of the people during this challenging period. He underscored the importance of seamless coordination and uninterrupted essential services to minimise the impact of the snowfall on public life.
