Northeast Desk, 18th May: A coordination-cum-monsoon preparedness meeting was convened at the Conference Hall of Gyalshing District Zilla Panchayat Bhawan Kyongsa on May 18. The meeting focused on discussing safety measures and preparations for the upcoming monsoon season in the district.
Chaired by M Bharani Kumaar (IAS), District Collector of Gyalshing and Chairman of District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the meeting saw the participation of key stakeholders including officials from various departments and agencies such as Health, Food and Civil Supplies, PMGSY, Power, PHED, Agriculture and Horticulture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, SSB Yangtey, and NHIDCL.
During the meeting, detailed presentations were made by department representatives outlining their preparedness measures and mechanisms to mitigate monsoon-induced disasters in the district. Bharani Kumaar stressed the importance of timely planning and execution to minimize potential damages during the monsoon season. He directed departments to appoint a Nodal Officer responsible for effective communication and coordination during emergencies.
The Chairman of DDMA, Gyalshing, highlighted the benefits of the Incident Response System (IRS) and emphasized the roles and responsibilities of SDMs and BDOs in disaster management. He also mentioned plans for conducting mock exercises after the General Election 2024.
Bharani emphasized the need for adequate monsoon preparedness, directing hydropower project representatives to ensure adherence to safety protocols outlined in the Disaster Management Act 2005.
Khemraj Bhattarai, ADC Gyalshing, and Member Secretary of DDMA, elaborated on the Incident Response System (IRS) and urged proactive measures from stakeholders to prevent natural disasters’ impacts. He specifically directed departments to focus on clearing and maintaining drains and culverts, repairing village roads, and ensuring timely action and reporting.
Ganesh Kumar Rai, District Project Officer of Disaster Management Gyalshing, provided insights into the Disaster Management Act 2005 and the composition and responsibilities of DDMA. He also briefed attendees on the District Emergency Operation Centre’s functions.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the chair, underscoring the collaborative efforts needed to ensure the district’s readiness for the upcoming monsoon season.
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