Haryana CM reviews monsoon preparedness, directs districts to ensure zero waterlogging

Chandigarh, Jul 11 (PTI) Reviewing Haryana's monsoon preparedness, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini directed all deputy commissioners to prepare comprehensive action plans to ensure there is no waterlogging during the rainy season. Chairing a high-level meeting via video conferencing on late Friday, Saini reviewed flood-control measures, drainage arrangements and emergency response systems across the state. Divisional commissioners and senior officers of the Irrigation, Public Health Engineering, Urban Local Bodies, Development and Panchayats, Revenue, Health and other departments attended the meeting. The chief minister instructed officials to complete all monsoon preparedness measures without delay and ensure effective drainage systems to minimise inconvenience to the public. He directed deputy commissioners to identify waterlogging-prone areas in advance, closely monitor the situation in their districts and ensure prompt drainage of accumulated rainwater to minimise disruption to normal life. Saini asked departments, including Irrigation, Public Health Engineering, Urban Local Bodies, Revenue and Police, to work in coordination during the monsoon season. He also directed that pump sets, motors, pipes and other drainage equipment remain operational and ready for immediate use. The chief minister ordered continuous monitoring of rivers, including the Yamuna, and all major drains passing through the state. He directed officials to remove any obstruction to the flow of rainwater and keep a close watch on the Yamuna's water level, with immediate deployment of officers in vulnerable areas if required. Reviewing disaster preparedness, Saini directed officials to ensure that boats, generators, machinery and other rescue equipment remain in working condition. He also ordered round-the-clock operation of flood control and drainage control rooms in every district. The Health Department was directed to remain on alert to prevent water-borne and communicable diseases, maintain adequate stocks of medicines and ensure availability of doctors and healthcare services. Saini further directed every district to issue a dedicated toll-free helpline for complaints related to waterlogging, flooding and other emergencies. He also instructed officials to maintain detailed records of every waterlogging incident, including the affected area and the time taken to drain water and restore normalcy, saying the data would help develop long-term solutions for future monsoon management. PTI VSD MPL MPL