CM monitors post-snowfall restoration efforts

Srinagar, Dec 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sunday monitored the post-snowfall restoration measures across Kashmir and snowfall-affected districts of the Jammu division.

Chairing a comprehensive meeting with Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of Kashmir division via video conferencing in the aftermath of the recent heavy snowfall, CM Omar sought feedback from MLAs across party lines regarding the restoration measures in their respective constituencies.

He also held one-on-one discussions with the DCs of Kashmir and snow-affected districts of the Jammu division.

During the meeting, the CM urged officers to remain sensitive and responsive to public grievances, directing them to identify gaps in service delivery and take immediate corrective actions.

He emphasised the need to minimise hardships faced by the common people and praised the dedication of the Divisional Commissioners, DC, and employees who have been working tirelessly in adverse climatic conditions.

CM Omar called for enhanced preparedness in light of the snowfall forecast for the following week.

He instructed officials to improve action plans based on lessons learnt from recent weather events.

The CM emphasised the need to prioritise snow clearance on link roads, inner lanes, and by-lanes to ensure accessibility for residents.

He directed the Jal Shakti Department (PHE) to address water supply issues promptly and enhance the deployment of water tankers in affected areas.

CM Omar instructed the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and concerned departments to implement measures to prevent water logging in low-lying areas.

Stressing the importance of smooth traffic movement on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, he called for enhanced coordination between the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Traffic Police, and district administrations.

The CM stressed the importance of continuous monitoring and synergy among various departments to avoid any inconvenience to the public.

The meeting was held at the Raabita Public Outreach Office to assess the ongoing restoration efforts and review the status of essential services, including snow clearance, power and water supply, health facilities and other critical services.

During the meeting, MLAs across the party lines appreciated the efforts of the CM-led administration in swift response to snowfall, acknowledging the commitment of the government in times of weather adversaries.

Minister Javaid Ahmad Dar attended the meeting as a legislator.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, along with other senior officers, were present during the meeting.

Discussions centred on snow clearance operations, the restoration of power and water supply and the provision of other essential services and supplies.

The DCs provided updates on the current situation and detailed the measures taken to restore normalcy, particularly in challenging weather conditions.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and other senior civil administration officials also participated in the meeting virtually.