Monsoon preparedness: Udupi DC stresses water testing, emergency readiness

Udupi: Deputy commissioner Swaroopa TK has directed all departments in the district to remain fully prepared for the upcoming monsoon season, with forecasts indicating the onset of rains from May 26. Chairing a review meeting on monsoon preparedness at the deputy commissioner’s office here on Tuesday, the DC stressed the need for coordinated efforts to tackle floods, water contamination, infrastructure damage and disease outbreaks during the rainy season.

She directed urban local bodies and gram panchayats to immediately begin cleaning stormwater drains and culverts to ensure smooth flow of rainwater and prevent waterlogging and the spread of diseases. Nodal officers should also be appointed for emergency disaster management during periods of heavy rainfall, she said.

Stressing the importance of safe drinking water during monsoon, Swaroopa directed all 155 gram panchayats in the district to carry out continuous water quality testing. She expressed displeasure over inadequate reporting by officials during review meetings and instructed departments to submit detailed reports on areas where contaminated water had been detected and the corrective measures taken. Round-the-clock control rooms should function in municipalities, town panchayats and other local bodies, with staff maintaining constant coordination with taluk offices, she said.

To tackle rain-related problems on national highways, the DC directed officials to constitute monsoon task force teams for rapid emergency response. Emergency helpline numbers should also be publicised widely. Authorities were directed to promptly prune and remove dangerous trees that may obstruct roads or damage infrastructure during strong winds and heavy rain. Referring to accidents near the Maravanthe Beach stretch of the national highway, she called for installation of ‘No Parking’ boards and clearing of temporary roadside shops.

The DC also stressed preventive healthcare measures during the monsoon season. Health officials were directed to maintain sufficient stocks of medicines and vaccines and ensure health department control rooms remain active. Special focus should be given to preventing the spread of dengue, malaria and other communicable diseases.

Officials were further instructed to identify flood-prone areas in advance, and keep boats and trained swimmers ready for emergency rescue operations. Warning boards prohibiting swimming near water-filled quarry pits must be installed, while unsafe footbridges should be identified and repaired immediately, she directed.

Highlighting coastal concerns, Swaroopa directed the formation of a coastal erosion management committee to inspect vulnerable stretches along the district coastline, and recommend preventive measures before the peak monsoon season begins.

“During thunderstorms and lightning, precautions issued by the Meteorological Department must be strictly followed to prevent human and animal casualties. Awareness on lightning safety should also be created in the languages of migrant workers employed in the district,” she said. Senior officials were present at the meeting.