Rajouri: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Thursday reviewed restoration works and relief measures in flash flood-affected areas of Nowshera, directing departments to expedite restoration of essential services and prepare a long-term flood mitigation plan.
Chairing a review meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister assessed the response of various departments and directed officials to ensure speedy restoration of roads, drinking water supply, electricity and other public services affected by the recent flash floods.
He also asked all departments to complete a comprehensive assessment of losses at the earliest to facilitate timely relief and rehabilitation.
Emphasising the need for long-term disaster mitigation, Choudhary directed the Irrigation and Flood Control Department to prepare and submit a comprehensive plan within five days outlining both immediate and permanent measures to minimise the impact of flash floods and prevent similar incidents in future. He called for scientific planning, strengthening of vulnerable areas and adoption of sustainable flood management measures.
The Deputy Chief Minister instructed officers to maintain close inter-departmental coordination, closely monitor restoration works and ensure that relief reaches all affected families without delay. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting rehabilitation efforts and restoring normalcy at the earliest.
He also appreciated the district administration and line departments for their response during the emergency and urged them to continue relief and restoration efforts with the same commitment.
Earlier, Additional Deputy Commissioner Nowshera, Dr Pritam Lal Thapa, briefed the meeting on the damage caused by the flash floods. He informed that the disaster had affected houses, schools, roads, standing crops, dug wells and other public infrastructure, besides causing damage to PMGSY roads and infrastructure under the Health, Agriculture, Animal and Sheep Husbandry, and Jal Shakti departments.
The ADC also informed that dry ration had been distributed among all affected families and that the administration, in coordination with the concerned departments, was ensuring timely relief and rehabilitation assistance to all affected households.
