10,000–15,000 km road network to be cleared
All operators, mechanics, field staff on standby across districts
Srinagar, Jan 22: The Mechanical Engineering department Kashmir (M&HED), on Thursday said it has mobilised the entire workforce and machinery to ensure smooth snow clearance operations across Kashmir as the region braces for winter weather.
According to officials, over 300 snow clearance machines have been stationed at 26 control rooms across all major districts of Kashmir. The department has set a target of clearing 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres of road network during the upcoming snow spells.
“The Valley has been divided into four major divisions for better coordination – Srinagar-Budgam, Anantnag, Baramulla-Gulmarg and Ganderbal-Kupwara-Bandipora,” an official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
He said all operators, mechanics and field staff are fully mobilised, with machinery positioned since November 15. “Our mechanical department is also managing essential hospital services like oxygen supply, heating and lift operations at GMCs and district hospitals. We are ready on all fronts,” he added.
Officials appealed to residents to cooperate with snow clearance teams. “People are requested to park their vehicles on one side of the road to allow the free movement of snow clearance machinery,” the official said. The SMC assured that it is fully prepared to deal with any snowfall and maintain uninterrupted movement and essential services across the Valley.
Earlier, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, along with Deputy Commissioner Srinagar and other senior officials, reviewed the arrangements multiple times. They said the administration is fully prepared for the anticipated wet spell. (KNO)
