Wayanad minister in-charge T Siddique has announced plans to install additional rain gauge stations across the district to enhance monsoon monitoring. Speaking at a meeting held at the collectorate to review monsoon preparedness, Siddique outlined a series of measures to mitigate potential disaster risks.
Key Measures Announced
The minister directed officials to expedite the demolition of vacant, unsafe buildings and to remove trees that pose a hazard to public safety. A total of 192 disaster-prone locations have been identified in the district. In the event of a disaster, authorities have arranged 251 camps capable of accommodating up to 30,330 individuals. For monsoon preparedness and camp setup, local bodies have been allocated Rs 1 crore. Siddique emphasized that all preparatory measures must be completed at the local body level.
Dam Safety and Medical Preparedness
The minister stressed the need for interstate coordination if heavy rains necessitate dam openings. He also instructed that adequate stocks of antivenom and other essential medicines be maintained. Immediate steps should be taken to provide protective sheets for homes in tribal communities. Additionally, damaged roads must be repaired before the rains intensify. Data collection on estate workers living in disaster-risk areas is required, along with structural safety checks of their homes and buildings.
School Safety and Public Advisories
Drinking water in schools must be tested and confirmed safe for use. Measures to prevent food poisoning should also be implemented. On days of intense rainfall, Siddique directed that rainfall be measured twice daily to assess conditions and that timely public advisories be issued to ensure community safety.
