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Category: ENVIRONMENT

Published: 05 February 2017

• Reviews post-snowfall scenario, directs immediate dewatering of waterlogged areas

SRINAGAR: Minister for Public Works, Abdul Rehman Veeri, today said all major roads, lanes and by-lanes in the Valley have been cleared of snow and made fit for vehicular and pedestrian movement in the shortest possible time.  He also called for employing coordinated efforts for resumption of all other essential services, so that people don’t face any convenience. 

The Minister stated this while chairing a high level meeting here to take stock of post-snowfall scenario in Kashmir Division. He directed the officials to be on toes and work with renewed vigour to provide immediate relief to people. Chief Engineer R&B, Chief Engineer Mechanical Division, Chief Engineer PMGSY, and other concerned officers and officials attended the meeting.  

The Minister appreciated the work done by officials of concerned Departments for ensuring clearance of roads with machines as well as manually and added that the zeal needs to be continued till the winter season is over. He also reviewed the working of Control Rooms established in various parts of Kashmir and asked officials to advertise the helpline numbers so that people can contact them in need.

He directed the officials to undertake another round of snow clearance from roads and lanes, where snow gets accumulated after falling from roofs. He directed the officials to employ tippers and other vehicles so that the accumulated snow is carried away and disposed off in open spaces. Veeri also took note of water logging problem in various areas and directed officials to seek help of Fire and Emergency Services and employ other resources too for dewatering purposes. He also sought quick resumption of electricity supply to areas where the network experienced any kind of fault.

He said that the Government is considering purchasing additional snow cutters so that it will be better prepared to deal with the situation next season. While reviewing work of Public Works Department, the Minister hoped that record amount of work will be finished in year 2017. He said by presenting budget earlier this year, the working season has increased considerably and a record number of roads and other projects will be completed.