Srinagar, October 17: Underlining the administration’s commitment to make Jammu and Kashmir disaster-resilient, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha addressed an event on disaster risk reduction at the University of Kashmir on Tuesday.
The LG emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the UT administration is taking major steps to strengthen the disaster risk reduction system.
“Making J&K disaster resilient is our top priority and we are taking major steps to strengthen the disaster risk reduction system in the UT,” the Lt Governor stated.
LG Sinha suggested the establishment of disaster management committees in each Panchayat located in disaster prone areas. These committees are expected to include members of youth clubs, voluntary organizations, elected public representatives and Aapda Mitra.
People’s participation will play a fundamental role in disaster preparedness and risk reduction, reinforcing the importance of a collective effort to safeguard communities.
Against the backdrop of climate change and an increase in extreme weather events, natural disasters are now affecting areas previously untouched by such hazards. LG Sinha emphasized the need to move from a reactive response approach to proactive prevention and preparedness to effectively mitigate these impacts.
The LG underlined the importance of the theme of this year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, “Combating Inequality for a Resilient Future”, and called for accelerated action to address the concerns highlighted within it. He particularly emphasized the need to protect marginalized communities for resilient development and rapid recovery.
“Our priority is to strengthen the early warning system, early action, resilient infrastructure and collaborative action involving all stakeholders to ensure that precious lives are not lost,” stated LG Sinha.
The Lt. Governor directed the J&K Disaster Management Authority to formulate a plan for a robust mechanism to provide access to information, essential services and early warnings in the event of a disaster. This is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the population in adverse situations.
Later, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha dedicated the specialized snow clearing equipment and vehicles to the public today.
The equipment procured by J&K Disaster Management Authority was handed over to the Directorate of Mechanical and Hospital Engineering (R&B) Department of PW to carry out safe and effective snow clearing and maintain accessibility for citizens.
The number of 170 snow removal and disaster response teams under SDRF I, II and III includes snowplows, backhoes, snow mask tractors; Light tow truck for recovery vehicles, wheel-mounted front loaders, variable snow shovel, wheel and chain-mounted excavators.
Among others were Shailender Kumar, Principal Secretary, Department of Public Works (R&B); Professor Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Nazim Zai Khan, Secretary, Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction
