Kashi gears up for monsoon, prepares flood response plan

Varanasi: Ahead of the usual onset of the monsoon, which typically becomes active in mid-June, the district administration gearing up to make necessary preparations to mitigate the potential impact of floods.

To initiate action within relevant departments, district magistrate S Rajalingam convened a meeting with the Flood Steering Committee on Tuesday.

The DM instructed officials from various departments to draft action plans, highlighting the likelihood of the monsoon’s arrival by June 15. Therefore, all departments have ample time to finalise their preparations.

The executive engineer of Bandhi Prakhand received directives to complete ongoing projects before June 15. Rates for flood-use boats must be reassessed, considering their capacity. Existing departmental equipment needs verification, with immediate requisition for any necessary additions. Basic facilities must be available at all relief camps in the district, including the installation of solar lights.

Identification of sites for the early warning PA system should coincide with marking flood-affected areas and relief camp locations. Advance arrangements for animal fodder are essential.

The health department should stock sufficient chlorine and anti-snake venom, alongside ensuring an adequate supply of food grains for flood-affected individuals. Shortages and loss of life due to flooding should be prevented at any cost, said the DM.

Precautionary measures against heat were also stressed during the meeting, with provisions made for drinking water tankers and animal hydration. The fire department received instructions to remain vigilant in minimising fire incidents.

Earlier, Bandita Srivastava, the additional district magistrate (finance/revenue), provided insights into the district’s main rivers, including the Ganga, Gomti, and Varuna. Details regarding the functioning of water gauges installed by the Central Water Commission at Rajghat, along with past flood warnings and danger points along the Ganga, were shared.

An overview of flood-affected villages/localities revealed a total of 195 heavily and partially affected areas, with Tehsil Sadar bearing the brunt.

Relief camps are planned at 46 locations district-wide, including urban and rural areas, ensuring adequate coverage across affected regions.

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