Shimla monsoon disaster aftermath: Geological assessment ordered for vulnerable areas and Schools
Shimla, Aug 24
In response to the recent havoc wreaked by heavy rains in Shimla, a decisive step has been taken by the local administration. The Deputy Commissioner of Shimla, Aditya Negi, announced today the formation of a specialized committee of geologists entrusted with the critical task of assessing the extent of damage caused to vulnerable areas and schools. The committee’s mandate is to recommend swift and effective preventive measures to avert further harm.
Geologists Anil Kumar Singh Rana, Gaurav Sharma, Suresh Bhardwaj, and Atul Sharma have been appointed as committee members. To facilitate seamless coordination and communication, Assistant Geologist Sunil Verma will serve as the member secretary.
Deputy Commissioner Aditya Negi emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the recent series of landslides that have severely impacted various neighborhoods. Notable areas affected by the landslides include Summerhill, Shiv Baudi, Fagli, and Krishna Nagar. These and many other natural disasters in the city have led to the unfortunate loss of around 26 lives, hundreds of trees and rendered several buildings unsafe.
Taking proactive measures to address the escalating concerns of the community, the Deputy Commissioner took swift action. As per a spokesperson of the district administration on August 23, a formal request was made to the Director of the Industries Department, urging the deployment of a geologist team. This team is specifically tasked with assessing the safety of schools and identifying hazardous locations within Shimla city.
In a display of prompt responsiveness, the Industries Department promptly assembled a team of skilled geologists to tackle the pressing challenges faced by the city.
Though not specified in the media note by district administration, but the geologist team’s scope of work is extensive, involving thorough inspections of educational institutions and high-risk zones across Shimla. Their findings will be crucial in formulating effective and immediate corrective actions. The ultimate goal is to avert further damage and ensure the safety of the residents.
The committee inspected Indian Institute of Higher Studies Shimla, Police Line Kaithu, Loreto Tara Hall School and Dayanand Public School in Shimla city on the first day on Thursday. Deputy Commissioner Shimla Aditya Negi was also present on the occasion.
The Deputy Commissioner said that this was the first day of inspection of the committee, in the coming days also other places will be inspected as per requirement and after inspection the committee will submit its investigation report.
As the committee embarks on its mission, the city collectively holds its breath, hoping for insightful recommendations that will pave the way for a more secure and resilient Shimla.
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