Patna, May 21 (PTI) Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Thursday directed officials to remain alert in view of the possibility of both floods and drought-like conditions in the state.
Chairing a review meeting at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Choudhary asked officials to ensure timely preparedness and swift response to any disaster situation.
“Do not allow a disaster to turn into a calamity. Extend full support to people during any disaster situation. The government stands with the people. The first right over the state treasury belongs to disaster victims,” he said, according to a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
The chief minister directed officials to complete embankment strengthening and road construction works in flood-prone areas by May 31.
He also asked the Disaster Management Department to maintain constant monitoring of the situation and stressed the need to ensure adequate groundwater levels and drinking water supply across the state.
Emphasising inter-departmental coordination, Choudhary said all departments should work together to provide relief and minimise inconvenience to people during any natural disaster.
During the meeting, officials from the Bihar Meteorological Service Centre informed the CM that rainfall during the monsoon season this year is likely to remain below normal in June and July, normal in August, and again below normal in September, the statement said.
According to the forecast, south Bihar is expected to receive below-average rainfall, while north Bihar may witness normal rainfall.
Disaster Management Department’s Principal Secretary Santosh Kumar Mall gave a presentation on advance preparedness for possible floods and drought, and said all pre-flood arrangements were being made in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Earlier in the day, the chief minister also reviewed preparations for the Shravani Mela.
He directed district magistrates and superintendents of police to ensure proper arrangements for the annual fair, with special emphasis on crowd management, devotees’ convenience and security.
“It should be ensured that Kanwariyas do not face any inconvenience. Pedestrian routes should be organised, and proper arrangements for toilets, cleanliness and drinking water facilities should be ensured. Health facilities should be made available near major rest centres on the Kanwariya route, along with emergency medical services,” Choudhary said.
Revenue and Land Reforms Department Secretary Jai Singh presented details of preparations related to security, law and order, drinking water, sanitation, bathing facilities, uninterrupted power supply, healthcare services, tents, pandals, CCTV surveillance and fire safety measures for the fair.
Deputy Chief Ministers Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Bijendra Prasad Yadav, along with senior ministers, bureaucrats and police officials, attended both meetings. PTI SUK SOM
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