Dr. Shazad Malik appeals for urgent monsoon readiness in Poonch

• Monsoon Alert: JK-BADC seeks emergency preparedness from DC Poonch

JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Border Area Development Conference (JK_BADC), a registered organization working for the welfare of border and tribal populations in Jammu and Kashmir, has urged the district administration Poonch to take proactive steps ahead of the upcoming monsoon season to safeguard human lives property, and livestock in vulnerable areas of the border district.  

Dr.  Shazad  Ahmed Malik, Chairman of JK_BADC and former Vice Chancellor, expressed serious concern over the recurring damage caused by heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides during the monsoon, especially in hilly and remote border areas. In a letter addressed to Vikas Kundal l(IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Poonch , the BADC chairman vide his letter dated 28/June/2025 urged the district administration to take pro-active measures in safeguarding the lives of humans.

 He reminded the administration that in the past, many people from these regions have tragically lost not only their homes and livestock, but also the lives of their dear ones due to natural calamities. He said such disasters push already marginalised communities into deeper hardship and insecurity.

The BADC Chairman appealed  the authorities to  establish 24x7 main control room for monsoon emergency situation in DC Office, Poonch, then place the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) on high alert and ensure that all necessary arrangements are made in advance. He called for the deployment of SDRF teams in strategic and disaster-prone zones, and the pre-positioning of rescue equipment, medical supplies, and emergency shelters. According to him, timely preparedness is the only way to minimize damage and loss of life.

He also emphasized the importance of issuing real-time weather alerts and sharing updates on rising water levels in rivers and rivulets. Block Level coordinating committees headed by executive magistrates comprising of officials from different departments. Regular interaction with the local population to keep them aware of the situation.   He also suggested forming block-level coordination committees led by executive magistrates and including officials from different departments. These teams should interact regularly with local residents to keep them informed.

The former VC also suggested to establish District Police Poonch may also establish emergency 24x7 monsoon readiness control rooms.  Dr. Shazad  noted that better communication of this information would help people take necessary precautions and avoid dangerous areas during heavy rainfall. Calling for enhanced coordination among departments such as meteorology, flood control, health services, and local governance bodies, he said a unified response mechanism is essential to handle emergencies effectively. He further suggested that awareness campaigns be carried out to educate people on monsoon-related safety measures.

Concluding the statement, Dr. Shazad reiterated JK_BADC’s full support to the administration and appealed for immediate, organized action to protect the people of J&K’s border and tribal areas from recurring monsoon threats.