CS led SEC clears UNDP collaboration, Advanced disaster response measures for J&K

SRINAGAR : Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo on Monday chaired the meeting of the State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction (DMRR&R) to review and approve a series of significant initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster mitigation, preparedness and response mechanisms across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Principal Secretary, DMRR&R; Commandant General, SDRF; Commissioner Secretary, Law; Secretary, Revenue; besides other senior officers of the DMRR&R.
During the meeting, the SEC deliberated upon several key agenda items concerning disaster preparedness and resilience-building measures in the UT and accorded approval to a number of important decisions aimed at enhancing the institutional and operational capacity of the administration to effectively deal with natural disasters and emergencies.
Among the major decisions taken was the formal approval for entering into partnership with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for implementation of disaster mitigation measures in various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee also approved constitution of a Project Steering Committee to oversee coordination and effective implementation of the programme. The committee will be headed by the Principal Secretary, DMRR&R and co-chaired by UNDP along with several other members from concerned Departments.
In order to strengthen technological preparedness and scientific assessment capabilities, the SEC also approved procurement of Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) for vulnerable districts to facilitate simulation, prediction and mitigation of natural disasters. The Committee further gave nod for procurement of satellite phones for high-risk subdivisions and tehsils across all districts to ensure seamless communication during emergency situations and disaster events.
The meeting also discussed the constitution of hazard-specific task forces for disasters such as earthquakes, floods, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) and landslides. These task forces would comprise experts and members drawn from reputed national and local institutions including IITs, universities and other technical organizations to provide specialised inputs for disaster risk reduction and preparedness planning.
In another significant decision, the SEC revalidated funds amounting to Rs 10.69Crfor procurement of rescue and emergency response equipment to ensure safe, secure and efficient conduct of the annual Shri Amarnathji Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chief Secretary emphasized the need for robust preparedness, coordinated response mechanisms and adoption of modern technology-driven systems to minimize risks and strengthen resilience against disasters across the Union Territory.