News & Announcement

Pre-monsoon preparedness meeting held in Gangtok District

Date: 25-Apr-2024
Gangtok, April 25 (IPR): The Gangtok District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) held a preparatory meeting at the conference hall of the District Administrative Centre (DAC) to address preparedness for the approaching pre-monsoon season.
The meeting was chaired by Mr Tushar G Nikhare, District Collector Gangtok and Chairman DDMA, in the presence of Mr Rohan Agwane, ADC Gangtok and Member Secretary DDMA, Mr Passang Lepcha, ASP Gangtok and Mr Sonam Wongyal Lepcha, Deputy Director, DDMA.
During the meeting, the District Collector evaluated the preparedness level and emphasised the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard the safety and welfare of residents. He stressed the need for proactive planning, timely interventions and effective communication strategies to efficiently tackle emerging challenges. He said that these measures are crucial for effectively managing and reducing the impact of emerging challenges on the community.
Furthermore, Mr. Nikhare advised the relevant departments to ensure the clearance of drainage systems, jhoras and sewerage to prevent road blockages during the monsoon season. He also suggested that rainwater harvesting be practised by everyone to alleviate crises during the monsoon. The District Collector emphasised the need for a dedicated effort to improve community engagement initiatives, promoting a culture of preparedness and resilience at the grassroots level.
He further informed that by actively involving communities in such initiatives, individuals become better equipped to respond effectively to emergencies, mitigate risks and support one another during times of crisis.
Similarly, Mr Rohan Agawane underscored the critical importance of collaborative preparedness to mitigate potential disasters such as landslides and road blockages, which often affect the region during the monsoon period. He recommended deploying rapid response teams equipped with essential resources to swiftly address any emergencies. This entails establishing teams trained to respond quickly and effectively to various types of crises, equipped with necessary tools, equipment, and supplies to provide immediate assistance and support in emergencies, he added.
Also present were officials from the District Disaster Management Authorities, including BDOs, nodal officers from State Government departments, representatives from Sikkim Police, Army, and Paramilitary Forces, as well as representatives from concerned agencies.