Disaster Management in Focus: DK Authorities Gear Up for Monsoon
Mangaluru, June 28, 2023: Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan, also the Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority, emphasized the need for utmost vigilance and preparedness among officers and staff to effectively manage potential monsoon calamities.
Speaking at a meeting held at the deputy commissioner’s office today, Muhilan stressed that strict action, as per the Disaster Management Act, will be taken if these matters are not treated with due seriousness.
To enhance public safety, Muhilan called for the establishment of control rooms in all taluks across the district. These control rooms will serve as centralized points to report various calamities such as floods and landslides round-the-clock. Concerns were raised about the absence of control rooms in Bantwal and Ullal taluks. The DC demanded immediate action and deployment of necessary staff in all three shifts to ensure prompt response to distress calls. Failure to comply will result in appropriate action being taken under the Disaster Management Act, he warned.
He urged urban local bodies to establish control rooms in every ward and instructed MESCOM (Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited) to undertake precautionary measures to handle electricity-related issues caused by natural disasters. He also emphasized the importance of formulating disaster management plans at the ward level, appointing nodal officers, and coordinating with relevant departments to effectively address cloudbursts, landslides, and fallen trees.
With regard to sea erosion-prone areas, Muhilan stressed the need for issuing safety warnings to tourists, as well as deploying home guards and lifeguards to prevent any untoward incidents.
Noting the damage caused by rain and other factors, Muhilan directed officials to expedite compensation for affected houses and ensure the safety of mud-walled structures. He instructed the Deputy Director of Animal Husbandry Department to prevent any recurrence of animal casualties due to disasters.
Addressing concerns regarding rainwater flow on national highways, Muhilan tasked the Assistant Executive Engineer of National Highways with making appropriate arrangements to prevent disruptions to vehicular movement.
In closing, Muhilan emphasized the need for heightened disaster preparedness and urged officials to actively contribute their expertise and efforts in their respective jurisdictions. SP Rishyanth, DCP Anshu Kumar and other officials concerned at the district and taluk levels were present.
