The arrangements have been almost finalized as the divisional administration is expecting to ensure better facilities to the people across the Valley this winter. Though the power scenario has improved in the last few days, what remains the main focus at this juncture is the areas which remain usually closed during the winter periods due to the heavy snowfall. The arrangements this year in the border areas expected to be enhanced as the Divisional Commissioner has already directed officers to ensure that border villages are provided all the basic facilities including roads, electricity, mobile connectivity and internet services besides educational institutions and health centres so that these areas are not left behind on the developmental front. It was also maintained that border villages should not be treated as last habitations but “these are our first priority and are considered first villages.” Therefore, keeping in view the weather situation, the government needs to ensure all the basic facilities are made available in these areas on time so that the promises done with the inhabitants are fulfilled and the people could heave a sigh of relief. For the snow clearance, the men and machinery should be kept in already mode during the next few weeks so that the patients, employees, and students will not be pushed to the wall. Measures of essential items and an increased contingency plan for vulnerable areas should be implemented effectively by the district administration and the concerned departments. It is hoped that the administration will effectively ensure that enough stock is kept at the disposal of the far-flung areas before snowfall cuts off them from respective district headquarters.
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