Kargil: Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, IAS, on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting with officials from various departments, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Army representatives, stakeholders, and volunteers to strengthen the district’s disaster response mechanism.
ADC Imtiyaz Kacho, senior Army and BRO officers, departmental heads, and volunteers attended the meeting, which focused on ensuring quick, coordinated, and effective action during emergencies.
Rakesh Kumar noted that all villages in Kargil, except Itchu, are now connected by road, but cautioned that construction in challenging terrain can harm the environment and trigger disasters. He called for setting up a fully functional Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) to map and mobilise the nearest resources for faster disaster response.
Highlighting Ladakh’s vulnerability to earthquakes, landslides, flash floods, and accidents, he directed departments to nominate capable officers as EOC representatives and announced surprise mock drills to test real-time readiness. He also suggested installing recovery nets at strategic bridges for quick accident rescue.
Praising volunteers for their selfless service, Kumar promised professional training sessions by experts to equip them with life-saving skills.
The meeting ended with a pledge to remain vigilant, prepared, and united in protecting lives and property.
