Srinagar: Atal Dulloo on Monday chaired a meeting of the State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction to review and approve a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster mitigation, preparedness and response systems across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Finance, Principal Secretary DMRR&R, Commandant General SDRF, Commissioner Secretary Law, Secretary Revenue and other senior officers.
During the meeting, the SEC approved several important measures to enhance institutional and operational capacity for dealing with natural disasters and emergencies in the Union Territory.
Among the major decisions taken was approval for collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme for implementation of disaster mitigation measures in various districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Committee also approved constitution of a Project Steering Committee to oversee coordination and implementation of the programme.
The steering committee will be headed by the Principal Secretary DMRR&R and co-chaired by the UNDP along with representatives from concerned departments.
To strengthen technological preparedness and scientific assessment capabilities, the SEC approved procurement of Digital Terrain Models for vulnerable districts to facilitate simulation, prediction and mitigation of natural disasters.
The Committee also gave approval for procurement of satellite phones for high-risk subdivisions and tehsils across all districts to ensure uninterrupted communication during emergencies and disaster situations.
The meeting further discussed constitution of hazard-specific task forces for earthquakes, floods, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods and landslides.
These task forces will comprise experts and members from reputed national and local institutions including IITs, universities and technical organisations to provide specialised inputs for disaster risk reduction and preparedness planning.
In another significant decision, the SEC revalidated funds amounting to ₹10.69 crore for procurement of rescue and emergency response equipment for ensuring safe and efficient conduct of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.
Atal Dulloo emphasized the need for robust preparedness, coordinated response mechanisms and adoption of modern technology-driven systems to minimise risks and strengthen disaster resilience across Jammu and Kashmir.
