DHARAMSALA: Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa announced that the Kangra district administration is on high alert due to continuous heavy rains. He has directed nodal officers from various departments, including Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Tehsildars, and Naib Tehsildars, to stay on the ground to ensure swift relief and rehabilitation efforts if necessary.
During a review of the rain-induced damage at the Disaster Management Control Room, Deputy Commissioner Bairwa emphasized that there should be no laxity in disaster management at any level. He instructed all departmental officers to be prepared for tasks related to their respective areas.
The Deputy Commissioner reported that heavy rains have caused blockages on several roads, including Lahad Cheliyan Roodh Panyali Road, Upper Lambagaon to Vishwakarma Mandir Road, Chadhiyar Mungar Haled, Ballah Tooti Bat Road, DDM Rajun Road, Kharoth to Khabharan Road, Dhira-Kahanpatt Road, and EKB Chambi-Nadi-Pira Road. Efforts to clear these roads for vehicular movement are underway at a rapid pace.
The Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rain warning for parts of the district over the next 24 hours. The administration has urged the general public to remain vigilant, avoid traveling unnecessarily, and stay away from riverbanks and streams. Commissioner Bairwa advised, "Stay in safe places and do not take any risks during this period of heavy rain."
In light of the rains, the Deputy Commissioner has mandated daily water level reports from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) to the District Disaster Management Authority at 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. He assured that regular monitoring of the Beas River's water level is being enforced to prevent any disasters.
Deputy Commissioner Bairwa also urged residents to contact the District Disaster Management Center’s toll-free number, 1077, in case of emergencies. He confirmed that Disaster Management Centers are operational 24 hours a day across all sub-divisions, including the district headquarters, to provide continuous support during this period.
The administration's proactive measures aim to ensure the safety and well-being of Kangra district residents amid the ongoing monsoon.