Shimla Administration Gears Up to Tackle Drought-Like Situation
2 min read
Shimla, Feb 22, 2025: Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap chaired a district-level meeting to assess low rainfall and potential drought-like conditions in Shimla. He directed all departments to remain prepared, emphasizing the risk of forest fires due to dry conditions and the need for coordinated efforts to prevent damage.
Key Measures Announced
- Pilot Villages for Fire Preparedness: Each subdivision will identify one densely populated village where fire tenders cannot easily reach. Local youth will be trained for initial fire control. Water tanks will also be set up in forest areas.
- Updated Contact List of Nambardars: Village heads will act as first responders. Their mobile numbers will be shared with Block Development Officers. Disaster Mitras will be involved in Gram Sabha meetings on March 9 to raise awareness.
- Water Source Cleaning in March: To prevent waterborne diseases, all water sources will be cleaned before summer. Areas requiring water tankers will have Water Guards to ensure equal distribution.
- Agriculture & Horticulture Status: Officials reported that crops are unaffected so far, with 80% sowing completed. 1.5 lakh+ saplings were supplied to farmers. Insurance coverage for crops will be encouraged.
- Food & Water Safety:
- Food Safety Vans will educate restaurant owners about hygiene.
- The Food Supply Department will ensure adequate food stockpiles and fire safety measures in storage facilities.
- The Animal Husbandry Department will ensure sufficient fodder and disease prevention for livestock.
- Health & Women’s Welfare Departments will ensure availability of medicines and supplementary nutrition at Anganwadi centers.
The meeting was attended by ADM Jyoti Rana, SDMs, forest officials, and representatives from multiple departments.