Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan conducted a detailed review on Thursday at the Secretariat regarding the preparations of various departments and districts for the upcoming monsoon season. During the meeting, he directed all departments to complete their pre-monsoon preparations in a time-bound and effective manner. He emphasized that there should be absolutely no room for negligence at any level. He further stressed that it must be ensured, under all circumstances, that the public does not face any inconvenience during the monsoon period.
He stated that the coming few months during the monsoon season would be extremely sensitive and challenging. Given that the Char Dham Yatra is currently underway, all line departments must operate in a 24×7 alert mode. He directed officials of the Public Works Department to ensure that all roads are made pothole-free and that the repair of damaged routes is completed before the onset of the monsoon.
The Electricity and Drinking Water Departments were directed to ensure the prior repair and maintenance of power lines, transformers, and water supply lines, so that electricity and water supplies are not disrupted for extended periods during the monsoon season. He directed the Urban Development Department, municipal bodies, and District Magistrates to ensure the regular cleaning of drains and sewers. He asserted that waterlogging situations must not arise under any circumstances, and that all obstructions and encroachments hindering the natural flow of rivers and streams must be removed. He emphasized that priority should be given to ensuring high-quality work, avoiding any stop-gap or makeshift arrangements. Given the sensitivity of riverine areas within the state, the Chief Secretary placed special emphasis on the channelization of rivers.
**Stockpiling of Essential Supplies: No Shortages Permitted**
The Chief Secretary directed the Food and Civil Supplies Department to maintain adequate stocks of essential commodities—including LPG, rations, food grains, diesel, and petrol. He instructed that, in the event of a disaster, a detailed strategy for the distribution of relief materials and food supplies be formulated in advance to ensure that prompt assistance can reach even the most remote areas. Furthermore, he directed the Health Department to prepare a comprehensive action plan for the prevention of potential infectious and waterborne diseases during the monsoon season. He also issued instructions to commence fogging drives immediately and to keep health services on high alert. Additionally, instructions were issued to keep heli-ambulance services on standby so that prompt medical assistance could be provided in emergency situations.
