The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, recently chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the state’s readiness for the upcoming monsoon season. This meeting focused on the potential rainfall conditions and the proactive measures that various departments of the state government are taking to manage the situation.
The pre-monsoon activities are underway across the state to ensure that the impact of rainfall on daily life is minimized. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of having the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams ready in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions. He instructed that a permanent team should be deployed in these areas to provide timely assistance during emergencies.
Patel urged the senior secretaries of each department to ensure that information about the work being done during the monsoon is effectively communicated to the public through social media and other media channels. This is crucial to keep citizens informed and prepared.
The meeting included discussions about the disaster management planning related to various departments, such as irrigation, water resources, water supply, energy, and food security. The Chief Minister highlighted the significance of community participation in urban areas, with plans for mock drills and training programs to enhance disaster management capabilities.
Approximately 9,000 volunteers will receive intensive training in disaster response, aiming to improve the efficiency of rescue and relief operations during adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the Chief Minister provided guidance on the need for immediate repairs to highways and roads that might suffer damage due to heavy rainfall, and emphasized the importance of having alternative routes prepared.
The Secretary of Roads and Buildings reported that 90% of the pre-monsoon inspections of small bridges and causeways have been completed. Furthermore, the energy department has equipped itself with satellite phones and adequate manpower to restore electricity supply promptly in case of disruptions due to rain.
The Chief Secretary, Pankaj Joshi, also ensured that control rooms in various districts remain operational. These rooms will monitor the situation and ensure that resources and assistance reach the districts as needed.
Officials from the central weather department and the Coast Guard participated in the meeting to provide additional insights and strategies for effective disaster management during the monsoon.
As the weather department forecasts moderate rainfall in the coming days due to western winds and humidity, the state is bracing for potential rainfall, especially in South Gujarat districts. However, there is currently no active weather system affecting Gujarat. The weather department predicts that monsoon activity is expected to commence around June 15. The government is keen on ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to safeguard the citizens during this season.
In summary, the Gujarat government is taking significant steps to prepare for the upcoming monsoon season. With a focus on coordination between departments and timely communication to the public, the state aims to manage the challenges posed by heavy rainfall effectively. By training volunteers and ensuring the readiness of disaster response teams, Gujarat is setting a proactive approach to handle the monsoon’s impact on daily life.
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