With the monsoon expected to arrive in Lahaul-Spiti by June 25, the district administration has stepped up preparedness measures and directed all departments to ensure advance arrangements to deal with potential emergencies. According to forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the district is likely to receive above-normal rainfall this year, raising concerns over landslides, road blockages and other weather-related disruptions.
To review preparedness, a pre-monsoon meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office in Keylong recently under the chairmanship of Lahaul-Spiti DC Kiran Bhadana. Officials reviewed weather forecasts and discussed strategies to minimise the impact of natural disasters and ensure public safety during the rainy season.
Chairing the meeting, Bhadana instructed all departments to complete necessary preparations well in advance and maintain close coordination to respond effectively to any emergency. She stressed that timely planning and inter-departmental cooperation would be crucial in safeguarding lives and property during the monsoon.
The agriculture and horticulture departments were directed to remain in regular contact with farmers and orchardists and ensure that agricultural and horticultural produce reached markets without disruption. Department officials were also asked to formulate contingency plans to address challenges arising from heavy rainfall.
Electricity Department was instructed to maintain uninterrupted power supply and keep emergency response teams, repair equipment and essential resources ready to tackle power outages caused by adverse weather conditions.
Similarly, Public Works Department (PWD) was directed to keep machinery and manpower on standby to clear road blockages and restore connectivity in the event of landslides or flash floods. Ensuring swift restoration of affected roads was identified as a priority for the administration.
The Health Department was asked to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines and life-saving drugs at all healthcare facilities and strengthen emergency medical services to meet any crisis situation.
The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department was directed to ensure sufficient stocks of LPG cylinders, edible oils and other essential commodities. Officials were also asked to establish advance coordination for alternative supply arrangements in areas that could become temporarily cut off due to road closures.
Bhadana also directed department officials to identify vulnerable locations, strengthen relief and rescue preparedness and ensure the availability of emergency resources. She urged tourists and travellers visiting the district during the monsoon to plan their journeys carefully and check weather and road conditions before travelling.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to public safety, she said all departments and agencies were working in close coordination to minimise risks and ensure a prompt response to any emergency during the monsoon season.
