Jasrotia urges Monsoon readiness to prevent loss of life and property

• Calls for robust contingency planning, identification of vulnerable zones and real-time public alert systems

JASROTA: BJP MLA from Jasrota, Rajiv Jasrotia, on Tuesday urged the J&K Government and all concerned departments to immediately gear up for the forthcoming monsoon season, stressing the need to take decisive and proactive measures to avoid recurrence of disasters that have, year after year, caused loss of life, property, and widespread disruption across the Union Territory.

Speaking on the occasion, Jasrotia highlighted the persistent vulnerabilities that J&K faces during heavy rains, including landslides, flash floods, road blockages, waterlogging in urban and semi-urban areas, and damage to crops and infrastructure. He stressed that a lack of preparedness in past years has repeatedly amplified the impact of natural calamities, and timely, coordinated action could prevent such crises in the future.

“Monsoon is not just a season; in J&K it is a test of administrative readiness and community resilience. Every year, lives and livelihoods are put at risk due to delayed response and inadequate planning. The government must take pre-emptive steps to ensure that vulnerable areas, critical roads, bridges, and water channels are fortified well before the rains hit,” Jasrotia said.

Emphasizing disaster preparedness, the MLA called for the formulation of robust contingency plans at the district and block levels, along with clear identification of high-risk zones prone to landslides, floods, and waterlogging. He underscored the need to maintain ready stockpiles of essential equipment, including rescue and relief gear, dewatering pumps, ambulances, and emergency supplies to enable rapid response in crisis situations.

Jasrotia also stressed the importance of seamless coordination among key agencies such as the Public Works Department (PWD), Disaster Management authorities, Border Roads Organisation (BRO), local administration, and health departments to ensure quick restoration of roads, drainage systems, and essential services in case of emergencies. He emphasized that proactive repair of drainage systems and water channels can significantly reduce waterlogging and prevent urban flooding.

Highlighting the critical role of communication, Jasrotia urged all departments to actively use official media platforms, social media, and local alert systems for real-time dissemination of weather warnings, advisories, and emergency information. “Accurate and timely alerts save lives,” he said, urging authorities to ensure that local communities are fully informed and prepared.Further, the MLA called for strengthening early warning systems, conducting community awareness campaigns at the grassroots level, and involving local volunteers to help vulnerable populations during emergencies. He also recommended regular drills and mock exercises to test disaster response mechanisms and build public confidence.

Reiterating his appeal, Jasrotia said that the J&K Government must adopt a comprehensive, coordinated, and transparent approach to monsoon preparedness. “Preventive measures taken today—before the first rains—can save precious lives, protect property, and ensure that the Union Territory is ready to face natural challenges without panic or avoidable losses,” he added.By pushing for these measures, Jasrotia underlined the need for accountability, coordination, and forward planning, emphasizing that effective monsoon management is not just the responsibility of authorities but a collective effort to safeguard lives and livelihoods across Jammu & Kashmir.