CM Omar Abdullah directs departments to stay prepared as snowfall forecast in J&K nears

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar to review the preparedness of the administration in the event of snowfall and a likely precipitation spell predicted over the coming weekend.

The meeting focused on assessing the readiness of departments across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions and fine-tuning response mechanisms to ensure minimal disruption to public life.

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The Chief Minister observed that winter preparation plans in both divisions are largely on track, but stressed that the real test lies in effective implementation on the ground.

He noted that while precipitation is expected this weekend, it may not be as widespread as later in the season, providing the administration with a valuable opportunity to refine and strengthen preparedness plans.

“Winter preparedness plans are on pace, but the test of any plan is in its implementation. This expected weather spell gives us time to refine our preparations before the more severe conditions set in,” the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting the core responsibilities of the government during winter, Omar Abdullah underlined that the administration would primarily be judged on three critical parameters: timely road clearance, uninterrupted electricity supply and availability of drinking water.

“These three—roads, electricity and water—are the ABC of our winter response. Everything else flows from them. People’s access to hospitals, mobility and daily life depend on how efficiently we manage these,” he asserted, directing all departments across both divisions to accord these sectors the highest priority once snowfall begins.

The Chief Minister stressed the need for a pre-emptive rather than a purely reactive approach. He instructed departments to ensure the advance deployment of manpower and machinery wherever required. Referring to presentations made during the meeting, he expressed satisfaction that most preparatory work has been completed, while also flagging certain areas requiring closer attention.

In the power sector, CM Omar Abdullah directed strict monitoring of the availability of transformer oil. Noting that supplies have been increased this year, he cautioned that any reported shortage would likely be due to pilferage, which needs to be curbed.

He also reviewed the issue of distribution transformer (DT) buffer stock, stressing that its utility depends on timely mobility.

Reviewing urban preparedness, particularly in Srinagar, the Chief Minister laid emphasis on dewatering arrangements. He directed the advance placement of mobile dewatering pumps in known vulnerable areas prone to waterlogging.

The Chief Minister also raised concerns regarding passenger facilities at Srinagar Airport during weather-related flight disruptions, especially as the bad weather coincides with the onset of the tourist season. He directed the Divisional Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner to coordinate with airport authorities to ensure better management of basic amenities, particularly sanitation within the terminal.

On helicopter services for remote and snowbound areas, Omar Abdullah expressed optimism about the early operationalisation of Heli services for areas such as Kupwara and Bandipora.

Turning to the Jammu division, the Chief Minister stressed the need for heightened vigilance to prevent landslides and ensure swift restoration and establishment of alternate routes in case of damage.