BARAMULLA: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa Monday visited the Mechanical Division Baramulla to inspect the readiness of snow clearance machinery in anticipation of heavy snowfall during winter months.

The inspection aimed to ensure efficient winter preparedness and uninterrupted road connectivity across the district.

During the visit, the DC reviewed the availability and operational efficiency of 27 snow clearance machines, including Snow Cats and a Snow Cutter, which will be tasked with clearing snow from an extensive road network spanning approximately 1,400 kms.

Officials from the Mechanical Division briefed the DC on deployment strategies and maintenance schedules to ensure uninterrupted operations during snow emergencies.

The DC issued specific directions to ensure that all snow clearance machines remain in a state of readiness and are deployed promptly during snowfall to avoid disruptions. He instructed the establishment of a 24×7 control room to monitor snow clearance operations and address public grievances in real time.

He also emphasized robust coordination with other departments to manage emergencies effectively, prioritizing the clearance of critical routes such as highways, hospitals, and educational institutions.

The proactive steps directed by the DC aim to minimize disruptions caused by snowfall, ensure public safety, and maintain essential services during the winter season. The administration assured the public of its commitment to tackling any challenges posed by adverse weather conditions.

Meanwhile, the DC also visited the Jhelum Valley Forest Division Baramulla to review the availability and distribution of firewood for religious institutions, including Masjids and Gurdwaras. Divisional Forest Officer, Satyendra Mourya briefed the DC on the availability of firewood and the distribution mechanism.

Later, the DC visited KPDCL Electric Division Baramulla storage facility and inspected the buffer stock of transformers to ensure adequate supplies for the upcoming winter demand. Minga Sherpa also toured the workshop where the repairs of damaged transformers are done and directed the concerned authorities to ensure the prompt delivery of repaired units.

Additionally, the officers of the department requested for additional vehicle support for the transportation of transformers, to which the DC assured that extra vehicles would be allocated to meet the heightened demand during the winter months.