PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
The Dehradun district administration conducted a mock drill at seven sensitive locations to check its preparedness for floods, landslides and waterlogging during the monsoon season as part of a State level exercise on Thursday.
Speaking about the preparations, additional district magistrate KK Mishra said that the government had started planning for the monsoon nearly three months in advance. He said the first priority was to clean drains and rivers to prevent waterlogging during heavy rain. Another important task was to keep roads open, especially in landslide-prone areas. Mechanical excavators have been deployed at vulnerable locations, including Chakrata, Mussoorie and other rural routes, while nodal officers have been appointed and their contact numbers shared with the control room for quick action.
The mock drill was held at Sahastradhara, Karligarh, Rishikesh, Vikasnagar, Mussoorie, Doiwala and Chakrata. Mishra informed that three months worth of essential ration has already been supplied to remote mountainous areas. He added that Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been formed for Dehradun and Rishikesh. These teams will work with sub-divisional magistrates and other departments during emergencies. Waterlogging-prone areas have also been identified so that immediate action can be taken if heavy rainfall causes flooding. The administration said the mock drill will help improve disaster preparedness and ensure a faster response during the monsoon season.
