Ampati, July 13: In view of the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over Meghalaya, the Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills has issued a comprehensive order directing all government departments and emergency response agencies to remain on high alert and ensure round-the-clock preparedness.
The order has been issued under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, in anticipation of possible floods, flash floods, landslides, road blockages, disruption of essential services and other monsoon-related emergencies.
All Heads of Departments, Magistrates, Block Development Officers, Medical Officers, Executive Engineers and officials responsible for essential public services have been instructed to remain stationed at their respective headquarters and ensure uninterrupted functioning of their offices. Officers have also been directed not to leave their place of posting without prior permission from the Deputy Commissioner, except in exceptional circumstances where telephonic approval may be obtained and confirmed in writing later.
The order further mandates that all officers remain accessible on their mobile phones at all times and respond promptly to directions issued by the District Administration, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) or any other competent authority.
Departments have been instructed to keep adequate manpower, vehicles, machinery, communication systems, rescue equipment and other logistics in a state of readiness for immediate deployment. Field officers and Quick Response Teams have also been directed to remain on standby and report any incidents of flooding, landslides, road blockages, bridge damage, disruption of essential services or damage to public infrastructure to the DEOC without delay.
The order also emphasizes the need to maintain adequate emergency stocks of food, drinking water, medicines, tarpaulins, fuel, power backup and other essential supplies in vulnerable locations and designated relief centres.
Emergency response agencies, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire & Emergency Services, Police, Civil Defence & Home Guards and Medical Teams, have been placed on standby for immediate deployment whenever required.
To ensure effective coordination, the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC), South West Garo Hills, will function on a 24×7 basis to monitor the situation and coordinate preparedness, response and reporting activities.
The Deputy Commissioner has warned that any violation of the order will be viewed seriously and will attract action under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, in addition to disciplinary proceedings under the applicable Service Conduct Rules. The order has come into force with immediate effect and will remain in operation until further orders.
