Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan reviewed the state’s monsoon situation at the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) and directed all departments to remain on 24×7 alert, stressing that protecting public life remains the government’s highest priority.
The Chief Secretary reviewed rainfall conditions, river water levels, landslides, road closures, relief and rescue operations, and the status of electricity, drinking water, and communication services across the state. He instructed officials to reopen blocked roads on a priority basis and ensure that adequate machinery is pre-positioned in vulnerable locations.
He directed all District Magistrates to conduct regular field inspections, closely monitor relief and rescue operations, and maintain constant coordination with the State Emergency Operations Centre. He also emphasized keeping sufficient pumps and other essential equipment ready in waterlogged areas.
The meeting also reviewed arrangements for the Char Dham Yatra, Kanwar Yatra, and Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Bardhan said the safety of pilgrims must remain the foremost priority. If weather conditions deteriorate or routes become inaccessible, pilgrims should be accommodated at safe locations with necessary facilities and allowed to proceed only after conditions improve.
The Chief Secretary instructed officials to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of river water levels and ensure that downstream residents—and neighbouring states, if necessary—are alerted well in advance before water is released from dams and barrages.
He also directed departments to restore disrupted communication, electricity, and drinking water services without delay in the event of heavy rainfall or landslides. All satellite phones must remain operational at all times, and alternative communication systems should be kept ready.
Bardhan further instructed officials to strengthen the information dissemination system so that weather warnings and alerts issued by the Meteorological Department reach people promptly—from the state level down to the last village. He emphasized that timely warnings play the most critical role in reducing loss of life during natural disasters.
