Commissioner SMC chairs meeting on winter preparedness

Srinagar, Oct 19: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, Monday chaired a review meeting at the SMC Central Office, Karan Nagar, to assess the Corporation’s preparedness for snow clearance and dewatering operations ahead of the winter season.
The meeting was attended by Joint Commissioner, R&E, Joint Commissioner, Works), Joint Commissioner, Superintending Engineer, City Drainage Circle, and other officers of the Corporation.
The Commissioner reviewed a comprehensive deployment plan for manpower and machinery across all municipal wards to ensure timely and efficient snow clearance. He directed the concerned officers to prioritise key public routes, particularly those connecting hospitals, ration depots, shrines, and government institutions, to ensure uninterrupted accessibility during snowfall.
Highlighting SMC’s operational capabilities, the Commissioner reviewed the availability of snow clearance machinery, advanced dewatering systems, and mobility support to facilitate a swift and effective response to winter-related challenges.
Emphasising the importance of seamless inter-departmental coordination, the Commissioner directed the Snow Monitoring Committee and the 24×7 Control Room to remain fully operational and responsive. He stressed that public grievances must be addressed promptly and that immediate action should be taken on reports concerning snow accumulation, blocked roads, and other winter-related disruptions.
Reviewing dewatering preparedness, the Commissioner directed that all permanent dewatering stations be maintained in optimal working condition. He further stressed the need for the timely deployment of high-capacity mobile pumps in vulnerable and low-lying areas to mitigate waterlogging during rainfall, snowmelt, and adverse weather conditions.
The Commissioner also underscored the importance of advance planning, field-level monitoring, accountability, and effective coordination among all concerned wings to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential civic services throughout the winter season.
Dr. Basharat underscored the Corporation’s focus on operational readiness, rapid-response capability, and uninterrupted civic service delivery, directing all concerned officers to ensure end-to-end preparedness, real-time field coordination, and swift mobilisation of resources. He emphasised that every municipal ward must be equipped to respond effectively to snow-related disruptions and waterlogging, ensuring safer mobility, accessible essential services, and minimal public inconvenience throughout the winter season.