Snowfall should serve signal for framing up, fine tuning: Vohra

Srinagar, Nov 16 (UNI) Stressing the need for drawing up a fool proof strategy to meet any eventuality, Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra said early snowfall should serve as a signal for framing up and fine tuning the exigency plans.

Mr Vohra reviewed the overall situation, arising in the wake of the unforeseen early snowfall in the Kashmir valley, an official spokesman said today.

He said early snowfall should serve as a signal for framing up and fine tuning the exigency plans.

He hoped that all the departments concerned would rise to the occasion and take timely and necessary measures for providing maximum possible respite to the people during the winter, and meeting exigencies on the basis of experience gained over the years.

Immediately after his arrival here from Jammu yesterday, the Governor reviewed the stock and supply position of various essential commodities with the Divisional Administration.

Mr Vohra also discussed the status of the various utility services, like power and drinking water and enquired about the disruption in the power supply following the first snowfall.

This, he said, calls for drawing up a foolproof strategy to meet such eventualities, with focused attention on keeping the basic services functional.

The Governor stressed the crucial importance of chalking out action plans at the divisional and district levels for taking care of various critical areas, like snow clearance, de-watering in the inundated areas and smooth functioning of basic services.

He also reviewed the supply position of essential commodities and other winter stockings in the remote areas which remain land locked for better part of the year due to snowfall.

Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Masud Samoon briefed the Governor about the post snow situation in Kashmir and steps taken in restoring the power supply and other services in the affected areas.

The Governor was informed that 85 per cent power supply has been restored in the affected areas by 1700 hrs last evening.

Against the consumption of 650 Mw to 680Mw during normal time before the snowfall, the consumption after restoration works has touched 590 Mw by last evening.

He was also apprised that 45 snow clearance machines and 68 pumping stations have been pressed into service to clear the snow on the roads and dewater in-undated areas.

UNI BAS QAB SB HT1340