DC Ganderbal reviews winter preparedness

Ganderbal, Oct 23: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shreya Singhal, Friday chaired a meeting at the Conference Hall, Mini Secretariat Ganderbal, to review winter preparedness across the district and assess the status of winter-related works and arrangements being undertaken by various departments.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the Winter Preparedness Plan 2026 and stressed the need for advance planning, timely execution of essential works and coordinated efforts among all concerned departments to ensure uninterrupted public services during the winter season.
The DC directed the concerned departments to ensure that all requisite arrangements are put in place well in advance, with particular focus on maintaining essential services, ensuring public safety and addressing the difficulties that may arise due to snowfall, freezing temperatures and adverse weather conditions.
The Public Works Department (R&B), PMGSY and 122 RCC were directed to review the preparedness of road networks, identify vulnerable and snow bound stretches, ensure the availability of men and machinery, and establish effective snow clearance arrangements. The officers were asked to ensure timely restoration of road connectivity and prioritise routes providing access to essential services, healthcare facilities and habitations likely to face disruption during heavy snowfall.
The Power Development Department (KPDCL) was directed to ensure the availability of adequate manpower, machinery and essential materials for prompt restoration of electricity supply in case of disruptions. The department was also asked to inspect vulnerable power infrastructure and ensure preparedness for addressing power related complaints during the winter months.
The Jal Shakti Department was directed to take advance measures to safeguard drinking water supply schemes against freezing temperatures, ensure the availability of essential materials and maintain adequate arrangements for prompt restoration of water supply wherever disruptions occur.
The Health Department was asked to ensure the availability of essential medicines, medical staff, emergency services and adequate arrangements at health institutions, particularly in areas that may become difficult to access during severe weather conditions.
The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department was directed to review the availability and distribution of essential commodities and ensure adequate stocking to meet public requirements during winter. The Fire and Emergency Services Department was asked to maintain operational readiness, ensure the availability of emergency response teams and equipment, and remain prepared to respond promptly to emergencies.
The Deputy Commissioner also directed the concerned authorities, including the Sonamarg Development Authority and Wular Manasbal Development Authority, to review winter related requirements within their respective jurisdictions and ensure necessary arrangements for public safety, essential services and maintenance of infrastructure.
The Forest Department and other concerned agencies were asked to extend necessary coordination wherever required, while the Transport Department was directed to review arrangements for safe movement of vehicles during adverse weather conditions. The Education Department and district administration were also asked to ensure appropriate preparedness measures for educational institutions in view of prevailing weather conditions and accessibility concerns.
Emphasising accountability and time-bound action, the DC directed all departments to submit updated winter preparedness plans, clearly indicating the status of works, available resources, identified gaps and measures proposed to address them. She stressed that pending works and deficiencies must be addressed on priority and that departmental readiness should be reviewed regularly to ensure a prompt and effective response to any eventuality.
The Deputy Commissioner underscored that close interdepartmental coordination, advance mobilisation of resources and continuous monitoring are essential to minimise public inconvenience and ensure the safety and well-being of residents throughout the winter season.
The meeting was attended by the Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Chief Executive Officers of Sonamarg Development Authority and Wular Manasbal Development Authority, Executive Engineers of KPDCL, R&B and PHE Hydraulics, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan, Divisional Forest Officer Sindh Forest Division, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer and other concerned officers.