Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has issued a stern directive to open all blocked roads across the state within two days. He also stated that if any roads cannot be opened within the stipulated time, the concerned authorities must provide a detailed report with reasons to the Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need to swiftly clear blocked roads and made it clear that any negligence in this regard will not be tolerated. He has instructed that strict action be taken against any officials found negligent.
Following the Chief Minister’s directive, Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, Vinod Kumar Suman, held a review meeting on Monday with officials from various districts regarding the blocked roads. The meeting aimed to expedite the reopening of all blocked roads. During the review, timelines for clearing the roads were requested from the relevant departments.
In the meeting, Secretary Suman engaged in detailed discussions with officials from disaster management, Public Works Department (PWD), PMGSY, National Highways, and BRO regarding strategies to open blocked roads. Practical difficulties faced during the process were understood and solutions were addressed on the spot.
Chief Minister Assures No Shortage of Funds for Relief and Rehabilitation
Secretary Suman mentioned that the Chief Minister has assured that there will be no shortage of funds for disaster relief and rehabilitation efforts. Sufficient funds have already been provided to districts from the SDRF, and additional funds will be allocated as needed. The Chief Minister has instructed that disaster-related tasks be prioritized to provide relief to the public as quickly as possible.
Approval for Minor Works at District Level
During the meeting, several officials raised practical difficulties related to the approval of works. PWD officials noted that obtaining approval at the HOD level takes considerable time. Secretary Suman responded that while major works will be approved at the headquarters level, approvals for smaller works will be issued at the district level, and a government order will be issued soon to expedite this process.
Prompt Clearance of Outstanding Dues
Secretary Suman also directed the prompt settlement of old dues, whether related to PWD or PMGSY. He emphasized the need to clear old dues of JCB contractors as well, to maintain their trust in the department.
PDNA Proposals to be Submitted Quickly
Secretary Suman instructed all districts to submit Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) proposals as soon as possible to expedite compensation processes. He mentioned that a format for the proposals is already prepared, and districts should send their proposals accordingly. Approval for PDNA will be granted after reviewing the proposals and assessing the extent of damage.
95% of Roads to be Opened Within Two Days
According to the information provided at the meeting, 95% of the blocked roads in the state are expected to be opened within the next two days. The remaining roads, which are severely damaged, will also be cleared within a week.
