In a significant move to bolster its defence against harsh winter conditions, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami officially released a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for cold wave management in the state. The launch took place on Friday during a day-long workshop on cold wave preparedness organized by the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) at the Survey of India auditorium in Hathibarkala, Dehradun.
Tech and Teamwork: The Pillars of Uttarakhand's New Disaster Strategy
Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami underscored that disaster preparedness is a collective responsibility shared by the administration, local bodies, voluntary organisations, and the public. He detailed the state's push towards adopting modern technologies to build resilience. Uttarakhand is actively expanding the use of drone surveillance, GIS mapping, satellite monitoring, and early warning systems. Additionally, the government plans to install sensors in high-altitude areas and deploy modern rapid response teams.
Beyond the cold wave SOP, the Chief Minister also unveiled several other critical documents aimed at strengthening the state's disaster response framework. These included SOPs related to flood management, conducting mock drills, and providing air assistance during disasters. He also released the Disaster Management Handbook, USDMA's New Year calendar for 2026, and operational guidelines for emergency response.
Focus on Vulnerable Regions and Healthcare Readiness
Highlighting Uttarakhand's geographical vulnerability as a Himalayan state, CM Dhami pointed out that avalanches, cold waves, and heavy snowfall present serious risks, especially in border and high-altitude regions. He stated that ensuring the safety of tourism, pilgrimage, and mountaineering activities in avalanche-prone zones remains a key government priority. This will be achieved through a continued focus on early warning systems and maintaining trained rescue forces.
On the specific issue of cold wave preparedness, Dhami informed that all districts are now linked to early warning systems. District Magistrates have been directed to ensure adequate arrangements for night shelters, bonfires, and blankets. He stressed the need for better coordination between the Indian Meteorological Department, the disaster management department, and local authorities to guarantee timely alerts and readiness in areas prone to cold waves and heavy snowfall.
The Chief Minister also emphasised healthcare preparedness. He directed officials to ensure that district hospitals, healthcare centres, and mobile medical teams remain fully operational during cold waves. Essential medicines, heating equipment, and first-aid supplies must be stocked, particularly in remote and border areas, to tackle winter ailments like hypothermia, flu, and pneumonia.
Administration Calls for Treating Cold Waves as a Major Challenge
Echoing the CM's concerns, Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan stated that cold waves should be treated as a serious administrative and social challenge due to their wide-ranging impact on health services, transport, livelihoods, livestock, and vulnerable populations. He highlighted the crucial role of real-time data sharing, GIS-based monitoring, dashboards, alternative communication systems, drones, and remote sensing in significantly improving disaster response and mitigation efforts across Uttarakhand.
