OCT 16:Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr. Anshul Garg, chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Kupwara to assess winter preparedness in the frontier district. The meeting brought together officers from various departments to ensure seamless coordination and readiness ahead of the harsh winter season.
Dr. Garg reviewed department-wise arrangements including snow clearance, power supply, water availability, healthcare, and essential commodities, particularly in the border and remote areas of Kupwara district. He emphasized that timely planning and coordinated action are vital to minimizing public inconvenience during heavy snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
The Divisional Commissioner directed the concerned departments to keep machinery, manpower, and logistics fully geared for prompt snow clearance operations, especially along critical road stretches, hospitals, and public service institutions. The Power Development Department was instructed to ensure buffer stock of transformers and immediate restoration mechanisms in case of power outages. Similarly, the Public Health Engineering (PHE) department was asked to ensure uninterrupted water supply and maintain alternative arrangements for snow-bound areas.
Reviewing the availability of essential supplies such as LPG, fuel, and food grains, Dr. Garg directed the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department to maintain adequate stock for at least three months, ensuring timely replenishment even in high-altitude regions. The Health Department was advised to strengthen emergency services, keep ambulances winter-ready, and ensure availability of critical medicines and medical staff in rural health centres.
Dr. Garg also reviewed the progress of major developmental projects in Kupwara and called for expeditious completion before the onset of peak winter. He underlined the importance of timely grievance redressal, asking district authorities to remain accessible to the public and responsive to emergencies.
The Divisional Commissioner appreciated the efforts of district administration for proactive planning and reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring smooth winter management and uninterrupted public services across all areas of Kupwara district.
