In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

JAMMU: Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Vikas Kundal today chaired a meeting with senior officers to review winter preparedness across Jammu Division and ensure timely arrangements for maintaining essential services during the upcoming winter season.

During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed district-wise preparedness, with particular focus on snow clearance, road connectivity, availability of essential commodities, power and water supply, healthcare facilities and emergency response mechanisms in snow-bound and remote areas.

Deputy Commissioners briefed the chair on preparedness measures undertaken in their respective districts including deployment of snow-clearance machinery, identification of vulnerable road stretches, availability of manpower and arrangements for maintaining essential services during adverse weather conditions.

The meeting was informed that the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), NHAI, NHIDCL, PWD and PMGSY have made arrangements for snow clearance and road maintenance on their respective stretches. Stage contracts have been put in place for timely clearance of interior roads, while machinery and manpower are being positioned at vulnerable locations.

The Divisional Commissioner stressed the need to ensure uninterrupted road connectivity in snow-bound areas, particularly in the remote regions of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Poonch, Rajouri and Udhampur districts. He directed the concerned agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure prompt clearance of roads to facilitate the movement of essential supplies and emergency services.

Reviewing the availability of essential commodities, Vikas Kundal emphasised advance stocking and timely lifting of ration for snow-bound areas. He directed the concerned officers to closely monitor the distribution process and ensure adequate availability of foodgrains, medicines and other essential items well before the onset of severe winter conditions.

The preparedness of Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) was also reviewed. The Divisional Commissioner directed the concerned officers to ensure adequate availability of transformers, electric poles and other essential equipment. He stressed the need to maintain additional buffer stocks of transformers in vulnerable areas and dispatch essential materials in advance to facilitate prompt restoration of power supply during winter-related disruptions.

The meeting also reviewed arrangements for drinking water supply, healthcare services, availability of medicines, firewood stocking and emergency response in remote areas. The provision of alternative drinking water supply through tankers in affected areas was also discussed.

Road safety measures along vulnerable stretches of the National Highway were reviewed, with emphasis on installing reflectors and undertaking other necessary precautions to ensure safe movement during winter conditions.

Emphasising the need for proactive planning, the Div Com directed all Deputy Commissioners and departmental heads to conduct regular reviews of winter preparedness and address identified gaps without delay. He further directed them to submit updated preparedness reports, along with details of additional requirements, to the divisional administration within the stipulated timeline.

The Divisional Commissioner stressed that all departments must remain alert and ensure effective inter-departmental coordination to maintain uninterrupted essential services and minimise public inconvenience during the winter season.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners of all districts of Jammu Division; Chief Engineer, PHE; Chief Engineers of PWD Jammu, Pir Panjal, Chenab, PMGSY and SAMPARK; representatives of the Mechanical Engineering Department, JPDCL and CAPD; Director Health Services, Jammu; Regional Officer, NHAI along with Project Directors of NHIDCL; Chief Conservator of Forests, Jammu and other concerned officers in person and through virtual mode.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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