Disaster management plan to be formulated soon: J-K govt

Jammu and Kashmir government today said a comprehensive disaster management plan is expected to be finalised by next month that would help authorities deal with emergencies and disasters in the state.
"A comprehensive State Disaster Management Plan is under preparation and a reputed consultancy Tata Institute of Social Sciences, engaged for the purpose, has prepared a draft," Minister of State for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation Ajaz Ahmed Khan said in the Legislative Council today.
"Before the draft is submitted for approval, a discussion with all stakeholders has been scheduled on 6th and 7th of March in Jammu following which the Disaster Management Plan is expected to be finalised by March to serve as basic guideline for authorities at various levels for advance preparedness," he said.

The Minister said several awareness programmes have been held in various educational institutions and more will be organised in coordination with Housing and Urban Development Department, Urban Local Bodies and PRIs across the state.
He said during the current year Rs 130 crore has been sanctioned to clear pending liabilities towards the families affected by disasters and for restoration of public infrastructure.
The Minister said the government will take all necessary steps to develop capabilities for quick response and minimise the impact of natural disasters.