Enhanced Departmental Coordination Key to Effective Disaster Management: CS Bardhan
Dehradun: Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan has underlined the importance of robust inter-departmental coordination for effective disaster management in Uttarakhand. Emphasizing the need for a unified and strategic approach, he called for seamless collaboration among departments and agencies including Disaster Management, Police, Health, Public Works, Drinking Water, Power, Fire Services, Transport, IT, Army, NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, and BRO.
SEOC to Serve as Central Control Hub
Bardhan announced that the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), under the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA), will function as the central command center during disasters. All departmental control rooms will be required to maintain constant communication with SEOC to ensure real-time information exchange and coordinated response.
Priority on Communication Infrastructure and Cyber Security
He stressed the importance of maintaining robust communication systems during emergencies and directed the IT Department to stay vigilant against potential cyber threats. Proactive measures must be taken to prevent disruptions and respond swiftly to any cyber incidents.
Crackdown on Fake News and Misinformation
To curb the spread of misinformation during critical times, Bardhan instructed the Information and Police Departments to monitor social media platforms closely. He urged citizens to verify the authenticity of information before sharing it, and emphasized strict action against the circulation of fake news.
Inspection of Fire Hydrants and Strengthening Civil Defense
The Chief Secretary directed a statewide review of fire hydrants, with a mandate to install additional ones where necessary. He also proposed establishing a Civil Defense control room within the SEOC, integrated with Army hotline numbers to enhance coordination.
Security Audits and GIS-Based Resource Mapping
Bardhan ordered fresh security audits for critical infrastructure including helipads, small airports, dams, and other sensitive locations. Departments have been instructed to submit detailed data on available resources to SEOC, which will be used to create a GIS-based database for efficient disaster response planning.
Ensuring Fuel Availability and Air Force Support
Highlighting the need for uninterrupted aerial relief operations, Bardhan emphasized ensuring the availability and storage of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) at key helipads to support Air Force efforts during emergencies.
Promoting Community Involvement and Preparedness
Recognizing the role of citizens in disaster resilience, Bardhan directed the Secretary of Disaster Management to issue detailed advisories and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for scenarios such as blackouts or heightened alerts. He also instructed regular mock drills to keep all stakeholders prepared.
The Chief Secretary’s comprehensive directives aim to strengthen Uttarakhand’s disaster preparedness and ensure a swift, coordinated response during emergencies.
