Shimla, Jun 30 (PTI) Revenue, Horticulture and Tribal Development Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jagat Singh Negi instructed the deputy commissioners of Mandi, Kullu and Kangra districts on Monday to strictly deal with violations of safety rules under the Dam Safety Act and the Disaster Management Act.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review monsoon preparedness with officials from the public works, jal shakti, electricity board, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), revenue and other departments concerned, the minister said since large dams are located in Mandi, Kullu and Kangra, the respective DCs must keep a close watch on these water bodies.
He also said any violation of safety rules should be strictly dealt with under the Dam Safety Act and the Disaster Management Act, according to a statement issued here.
The minister urged tourists to follow weather advisories and avoid venturing near rivers and streams. Sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs) across the hill state have been directed to remain vigilant.
Negi assessed the current scenario and district-level readiness, and issued necessary directions regarding the preparedness to deal with any adverse situation. It was informed during the meeting that heavy rainfall has been reported from Kangra and Mandi districts and full preparations have been made with machinery already deployed.
A total of 234 roads across the state, affected by rain and landslides, were being restored and were expected to be reopened by Monday evening. All national highways are currently open to traffic.
The revenue minister said the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Board has reported disruptions to 968 transformers due to adverse weather conditions and restoration work is currently in progress.
Likewise, 23 drinking-water schemes under the jal shakti department have been affected and efforts are being made to restore those promptly to minimise inconvenience to the public.
The minister said budget provisions have already been made for the SDRF and full preparedness with equipment deployment must be ensured. PTI BPL RC
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