Srinagar: Asserting that restoration of essential services and public utilities on war footing is the priority of the government, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah directed concerned departments to redouble the ration supply to the Valley.
The Chief Minister has directed the CAPD (Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution) to double the ration supply by roping in vehicles from SRTC.
The CAPD has distributed 50 trucks of ration in Srinagar till now.
Taking a comprehensive review of the restorations works undertaken by the line departments to restore the vital services in the state, the Chief Minister asked the concerned departments to redouble their efforts and ensure relief is provided to the people.
He was speaking at a meeting held to review the ongoing relief and restoration works on Saturday.
He also emphasised on ensuring that the ration reaches the residents of house boats.
The Chief Minister was informed that the VST's and DSPT'S (telecommunication supply systems) have been set up to improve telecom network coverage in the state.
Directing Commissioner of State Municipal Commission to mobilise men and machinery to launch a full-fledged cleanliness drive, Abdullah asked the civic body to ensure stocks of chlorine tablets.
Other water treatment measures should reach people in adequate quantity to put a check on water-borne diseases, he said, adding, state government will extend all help to check spread of diseases.
The Public Health Engineering department has been asked to fast-track the de-watering process and press more pumps into service.
It was also informed that medical supply has rushed to Handwara, Bandipora, Gurez and various other hospitals in North and South Kashmir.
A Facebook link has also been established by the name of 'operation connect government of J&K' to trace and connect the missing persons. The District Development Commissioners have been authorised to assess the ground situation and take a decision pertaining to opening of educational institutions in their respective districts so that students can start their education.
The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the concrete steps taken by administration in Kupwara, Bandipora, and Baramulla.
Earlier, during his visit to South Kashmir, he reviewed the road network at Sinthan Top which is presently being utilitised to ferry essential commodities and supplies for Valley.
He also assessed the progress of relief and rescue operations in the flood-affected areas of South Kashmir. The DDC of Anantnag district briefed Chief Minister on the present flood situation, relief and rescue measures being undertaken.
The Chief Secretary briefed the Chief Minister on the situation in North Kashmir and the steps taken by the administration.
Abdullah also took a brief regarding the water level at various places in Jhelum river and was informed that the water is receding or stable at most of the places.
About one lakh sand bags are available in the state to be used for plugging the breaches as soon as the water recedes.
The Chief Minister was informed that road networks are almost established and that Batwara road will be cleared immediately.
