SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 20: Ahead of a predicted spell of snowfall and precipitation, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a high-level review meeting today to ensure the Union Territory administration is fully prepared to handle the onset of winter.
Emphasizing a “pre-emptive rather than reactive” approach, the Chief Minister identified timely road clearance, uninterrupted electricity, and stable water supply as the three non-negotiable pillars of the government’s winter response. He directed all departments across both the Jammu and Kashmir divisions to prioritize the advance deployment of manpower and machinery in vulnerable and snow-bound areas.
Acknowledging that the upcoming weekend weather spell serves as a vital test for the administration, he stressed that effective implementation on the ground will be the true measure of their readiness, particularly in maintaining access to hospitals and essential services.
The Chief Minister issued specific directives to the power sector to curb shortages by strictly monitoring transformer oil supplies and ensuring that distribution transformer (DT) buffer stocks are mobilized quickly to minimize downtime.
Addressing urban concerns, especially in Srinagar, he ordered the advance placement of mobile dewatering pumps in waterlogging-prone spots and urged better management of passenger amenities at Srinagar Airport during flight disruptions. Regarding the Jammu division, he flagged the vulnerability of NH-44 and recently restored roads, calling for heightened vigilance to prevent prolonged blockages.
With 24×7 control rooms now operational and specialized healthcare logistics—including 4×4 ambulances and helicopter services for remote regions like Gurez and Karnah—in place, the Chief Minister expressed confidence in the administration’s ability to navigate the season while urging officers to refine their plans based on the lessons learned from this initial weather spell.
