Patna: Patna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh has assured full administrative readiness to tackle the risks of potential flooding and waterlogging in the coming monsoon season, emphasising swift coordination, vigilance, and mission-mode action across departments.
In a high-level review meeting held on Saturday, the DM directed officials from disaster management, police, municipal, and engineering departments to prioritise the protection of lives and ensure timely relief in the event of any disaster. Zonal and local officers, including circle officers and police, were instructed to act in strict adherence to the standard operating procedures (SOP) laid out by the Disaster Management Department.
Reflecting on the challenges faced during the 2019 waterlogging crisis, the DM stressed the need for preventive steps, including comprehensive pre-monsoon cleaning of drains and regular monitoring of sump houses. He ordered the inspection and repair of embankments by June 15, with special focus on flood-prone areas along the Ganga, Sone, and Punpun rivers.
The administration has confirmed the availability of essential disaster-response equipment, including boats, polythene sheets, tents, life jackets, medicines, and mobile medical teams. Drainage pumping stations are being readied, and measures are underway to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
To monitor real-time weather conditions, 26 rain gauges and automated weather monitoring centres have been installed across blocks and panchayats. A round-the-clock control room is now operational, and disaster response teams have been deployed.
All executing agencies have been directed to expedite ongoing infrastructure work and ensure that roads remain functional during emergencies.
