JALANDHAR
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal stated that the district administration is fully prepared to deal with any flood-like situation. He said that although there is no threat of floods in the district, the administration is fully alert. The Deputy Commissioner mentioned that there is absolutely no need for the public to panic as the district administration is fully prepared to tackle such situations. He added that even though there is no immediate danger of floods, the district officials have been instructed to remain completely vigilant. He said that the respective SDMs are personally visiting the field to review the situation while maintaining constant contact with the public. The Deputy Commissioner further informed that in the potential flood-prone areas of sub-division Shahkot, a mock drill was carried out under the supervision of SDM Shahkot Shubhi Angra. He said that earlier on July 8, a similar mock drill was conducted at Phillaur as well. He said that such drills help the administration practice handling flood situations while also strengthening preparedness measures. Moreover, people are made aware of the necessary precautions they must take during such circumstances. Dr. Aggarwal added that as per the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, a state-level flood control room has been established at Circuit House, Jalandhar, to deal with any possible flood situations in Punjab and to ensure immediate relief to affected areas. This control room is operational 24 hours a day. The government has also issued an emergency helpline number 0181-2240064. He said that the primary aim of this initiative is to further strengthen flood prevention and management. Apart from the state control room, the district administration has already set up a district-level flood control room with helpline number 0181-2224417. He further informed that 54 relief camps have been identified in the district to handle any such eventuality. The Deputy Commissioner said that in case of any flood-like situation arising due to a rise in the water level of the Sutlej River, the administration is well-equipped and prepared to launch relief operations without delay. He said the administration has an adequate stock of sandbags, essential machinery, and trained rescue teams. He also mentioned that boats, life jackets, tarpaulins, and water-pumping equipment are available. Besides, where officials and staff from different departments have already been assigned duties, coordination has also been established with NDRF, SDRF, and the Army. He said that medicines and other essential supplies have been arranged to be used when required. The Deputy Commissioner added that while the Health Department will ensure proper health facilities, the Agriculture Department will arrange fodder and other needs for livestock.