JAMMU, MARCH 18 (INFO)- Multi-pronged strategy has been evolved to tackle disasters effectively in the state at a high level meeting of State Executive
Committee of Disaster Management, chaired by the Chief Secretary Mr. B. R. Kundal here today.
The meeting constituted two committees to be headed by respective Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu for identifying quake ir-resistant structure. The committee will engage the services of expert engineers trained in structural and architectural designs who would suggest measures to retrofit existing structures and make them quake resistant.
Housing and Urban Development Department was also directed to prepare bylaws in consonance with safety norms to resist the shocks of tremor so as to ensure minimum collateral losses during the disasters.
Director General of Police Mr. Kuldeep Khoda who was also present in the meeting was asked to spare the services of two battalions equipped and trained to tackle challenges of disaster. Chief Secretary stressed on training and capacity building of professionals handling calamities. He said that alongwith those
involved for post disaster situations the Common people be also imparted necessary training for ensure community participation for tackling.
He called for launching mass awareness campaign involving youths, schools, NGOs and religious leaders regarding preventive measures to be taken during earthquake. He said services of local cable and FM radio be taken for the purpose.Mr. Kundal asked to encourage and educate people in general
to ensure upgrading of the safety of buildings in the public sector by retrofitting techniques to follow safety norms in future constructions.
He also exhorted the people to learn anti-disaster techniques and mechanism to help in reducing loss of life and property. Among others, Financial Commissioner Home Mr. S. S. Kapoor, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr. Mehboob Iqbal, Commissioner/Secretary Housing and Urban Development Department, Nasima Lankar, Secretary R&B Mr. Shalindera Kumar, Secretary Health Mr. K. B. Jandial, Secretary Revenue Mr. Mohammad Samoon and project coordinator, UNDP, Amir Ali attended the meeting.