SURAT - As the monsoon season approaches, local authorities have convened in Ahwa to discuss preparedness strategies. The beautiful, yet landslide-prone Dang district is bracing for potential disruptions due to rainfall-induced hazards and influx of nature enthusiasts.
The Dang district, known for its unique vegetation, is susceptible to landslides, tree falls, and rainwater inundation of low-lying causeways and roads during the monsoon. In light of these challenges, District Collector Mahesh Patel has called upon the district officers to collaborate, cooperate, and diligently perform their duties.
The district, which receives an average rainfall of 1800 to 2000 mm annually, often experiences storms and heavy rains that disrupt daily life. Recognizing this, Patel has stressed the need for special vigilance to ensure that critical services, such as emergency evacuation, rescue and relief operations, medical services, food grain supply, and transport services, remain uninterrupted. He has also instructed officials to coordinate with local swimmers during high flood situations.
Monsoon season in Dang is a sight to behold, attracting hordes of nature-loving tourists to its waterfalls and other scenic spots. However, this influx of tourists can lead to safety risks and transport disruptions. With the growing trend of selfie photography leading some tourists to risk their lives and disorderly parking interrupting public transport, authorities have been instructed to ensure security guard services are in place to prevent any untoward incidents.
Patel emphasized the role of rural employees, local officials, and voluntary-social organizations in assisting and compensating those affected by the heavy rains or storms. Disaster Mamlatdar Arjun Singh Chavda, who led the meeting, presented an action plan outlining departmental responsibilities. The plan includes keeping the district's control room operational 24/7 from June 1, 2023, and requiring enforcement officers to record daily information in the control room.
