Ensure people do not suffer due to harsh winter: CM to officials

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday directed top administrative officers to ensure that the people of the Valley do not suffer due to the harsh winter in Kashmir as dry weather has added to people’s challenges.

Chairing a high-level meeting attended by senior officials at the Civil Secretariat today to review winter preparedness for the 2024-25 season in Kashmir Valley and winter zones of Jammu Division, Omar said while the plans have been announced “but execution is now crucial”.

“Our preparations will truly be tested with the first snowfall. The prolonged dry spell is already creating challenges of depleted water levels and reduced power generation due to decrease in water flow,” the Chief Minister said. “The credibility of the government rests on us; once plans are announced, effective implementation becomes paramount,” he added.

During the meeting, Kashmir Divisional Commissioner presented a comprehensive briefing on the winter preparedness measures already in place across the division.

The meeting was informed that snow clearance and maintenance of inter-district highways, district roads, town roads have been prioritised and focus would be on ensuring essential services and functioning of hospitals, PHE supply, grid stations, and fire and emergency services.

The spokesperson said in remote regions such as Gurez in Bandipora and parts of Kupwara, where winter access is limited, sufficient fuel supplies have been pre-stocked.

“The Srinagar Municipal Corporation and other Urban Local Bodies have geared up for dewatering activities. Essential winter stockpiles, including food grains, fuel, HSD for generators, and repaired distribution transformers are in position. Additionally, subsidised helicopter services are available for snowbound areas across Jammu and Kashmir to meet emergency and medical needs,” the spokesperson said, adding that medical facilities have been equipped with adequate medicines, oxygen cylinders, and firewood, with duty rosters issued for hospitals through March 2025.

According to officials, control rooms have been established at divisional, district, and departmental levels to ensure coordination and swift response throughout the winter season.