Srinagar, Dec 28 (KINS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a video conference meeting today with district officials from across Jammu and Kashmir to assess the progress of snow clearance operations and the restoration of essential services following heavy snowfall in the Kashmir Valley.
The meeting, held at the video conference hall in Ganderbal, was attended by Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Shyambir, ADC Ganderbal, and senior district officials. The Chief Secretary, Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu, along with Deputy Commissioners from all districts, participated via video link.
The snowfall, which began yesterday, caused widespread disruption in several districts across the valley. During the meeting, Deputy Commissioners provided updates on snow clearance efforts, restoration of power and water supply, and emergency response measures.
Chief Minister Abdullah directed the Deputy Commissioners to personally oversee snow clearance operations, stressing the importance of obtaining photographic evidence of cleared roads to prevent freezing as temperatures drop. He called for swift action, urging officials to deploy adequate manpower and machinery on the ground.
District administrations were instructed to provide two-hourly updates to both the CM’s office and the Chief Secretary’s office to ensure continuous monitoring of the situation.
The Chief Engineer of Public Health Engineering (PHE) informed the CM that 90% of water supply has been restored across the valley, with efforts underway to address the remaining 10%. The Divisional Commissioner of Jammu reported no disruption to power and water supplies in Jammu districts, while the Chief Secretary confirmed steady progress in restoring electricity feeders, assuring that district hospitals are operating smoothly.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of ensuring 100% attendance from doctors and paramedical staff at all district and sub-district hospitals to manage emergencies effectively. Special instructions were issued to the Deputy Commissioner of Budgam to coordinate with airport authorities and assist stranded tourists, including providing transportation if needed.
The Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir assured that sufficient stocks of essential commodities, including food and civil supplies, are available across districts.
Commending the efforts of officials, CM Omar Abdullah urged them to remain vigilant, proactive, and responsive to the needs of the public during this challenging period, highlighting the importance of seamless coordination and uninterrupted services to mitigate the impact of the snowfall.(KINS)
CM Omar Abdullah Chairs Review Meeting on Snow Clearance and Restoration of Essential Services Across J&K
