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The Srinagar administration has proactively issued a comprehensive advisory in anticipation of a significant snowfall event predicted by the meteorological department for the period of January 4th to 6th, 2025. This preemptive measure underscores the administration's commitment to public safety and minimizing disruption during potentially hazardous weather conditions. The advisory strongly encourages residents to adhere to safety guidelines stipulated by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), particularly emphasizing the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel during the period of inclement weather. The potential impact of the snowfall on transportation, communication, and daily life is recognized, prompting the administration to implement several measures to mitigate these effects.
A key element of the administration's preparedness involves coordinating efforts across multiple crucial departments. The Municipal Health and Engineering Department (MH&ED), Public Works Department (Roads and Buildings - R&B), Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Jal Shakti (water resources), Health, and Medical Education departments have all been instructed to make necessary logistical arrangements for efficient snow clearance and related operations. This coordinated approach aims to ensure a swift and effective response to the anticipated snowfall. Furthermore, the advisory emphasizes that field staff from these departments should remain at their respective headquarters to provide immediate assistance as needed, ensuring a rapid response to any emergencies that may arise.
To facilitate a streamlined response to emergencies during the snowfall, the Srinagar administration has established a District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC). This centralized hub will serve as a point of contact for the public to report emergencies and seek assistance. Contact information for the DEOC and other relevant departments has been widely publicized, including numbers for MH&ED, SMC, R&B, Traffic Department, Fire & Emergency Control Room, and Animal Husbandry Control Room. This readily accessible information is vital in ensuring that help is promptly provided to those who need it during the potentially challenging weather conditions.
The meteorological department's forecast paints a clear picture of the anticipated severity of the snowfall. Director Mukhtar Ahmad of the MeT Srinagar revealed that moderate to heavy snowfall is expected in the lower reaches, while the upper reaches are projected to experience heavy to very heavy snowfall. This disparity in snowfall intensity necessitates differentiated response strategies, underscoring the importance of the comprehensive advisory and the preparedness measures put in place by the administration. The forecast also indicates that Jammu plains will experience rainfall during the same period, while the Chenab areas will see snowfall. The department has already issued yellow and orange alerts for some areas, emphasizing the potential for hazardous conditions.
Following the period of expected snowfall, the forecast predicts dry weather from January 6th to 10th. However, a cold wave accompanied by dense fog is anticipated from January 7th onward. This transition underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparedness even after the snow ceases. The potential for snow avalanches in certain areas, as well as disruptions to surface and air traffic, particularly on January 5th, necessitates caution and adherence to official advisories. The potential for disruptions to various transportation modes further underlines the importance of the administration's preemptive measures and the call for residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
In conclusion, the Srinagar administration's issuance of the snow advisory demonstrates a proactive and responsible approach to ensuring public safety and minimizing disruptions during a period of expected heavy snowfall. The coordinated efforts across various departments, the establishment of the DEOC, and the clear communication of emergency contact information are all vital components of this comprehensive strategy. The accurate meteorological forecast, coupled with the administration's proactive measures, offers reassurance to residents, while highlighting the potential challenges and the need for responsible action from the public.
Source: Srinagar administration issues advisory amid Kashmir snow forecast