In view of the high likelihood of flash floods during the ongoing season, Romil Singh Donk (IAS), Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and Deputy Commissioner, Leh, convened a high-level review meeting on June 26 at the VC Room of the DC Office to assess disaster preparedness and emergency response mechanisms.

DC Leh directed all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) to identify potential flash flood hotspots within their jurisdictions and submit comprehensive reports, including the exact GPS coordinates of helipads to aid in emergency evacuation and relief operations.

During the review of medical preparedness, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) assured that Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) are active in every block and that all toll-free emergency helplines are functional.

The meeting also covered the operational readiness of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). The DC was briefed on the current strength and equipment inventory of the NDRF to evaluate their response capability in the event of an emergency.

Further instructions were issued to SDMs to hold awareness meetings with Nambardars and assess the status and functionality of Incident Response Teams (IRTs) to ensure their effectiveness during crises.

The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on urgency, preparedness, and inter-departmental coordination. DC Leh reiterated that all departments must stay on high alert and maintain their safety equipment in a state of immediate readiness.

Key officials in attendance included the Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh; Superintending Engineer, PW(R&B), Leh; Commandant, NDRF 13 Bn.; Chief Medical Officer, Leh; Deputy Superintendent of Police, UTDRF, Ladakh; Executive Engineer, I&FC, Leh; Executive Officer, MC Leh; and the Nodal Officer, Air Maintenance, Leh. All SDMs and Tehsildars participated via video conferencing.