State prepares for winter

Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena reviewed winter preparedness with department heads, emphasising proactive measures to tackle challenges. Deputy Commissioners were directed to identify vulnerable areas, deploy snow clearance machinery, and ensure necessary repairs in advance. Priority was given to maintaining road connectivity, hospitals, power, water supply and educational institutions.The Indian Meteorological Department predicted a normal winter, but authorities were urged to ensure readiness. Adequate food, fuel and communication provisions for snow-bound regions were discussed. Control rooms will be established for coordination and quick response, while the pre-positioning of NDRF and SDRF teams in disaster-prone districts like Shimla was also addressed.