S Dinajpur gears up to tackle flood-like situation

BALURGHAT: South Dinajpur district administration has made elaborate arrangements to tackle flood-like situation in advance, in view of the spate of three main rivers - Atreyee, Punarbhaba and Yamuna. High alert has already been sounded separately in two subdivisions-Balurghat and Gangarampur.

Government officials have been directed not to take leave without permission from the concerned district magistrate.

"Unless any emergency emerges, no leave will be allowed for the officials and employees of both blocks and irrigation departments. They have been asked to monitor the situation," said an official source while contacted.

Various watchtowers have been formed to check whether the water levels of the rivers are rising. Tarpaulin sheets in adequate numbers are being kept in reserve so that the flood victims can avail them in case of any emergency. Sufficient dry food has been deposited too.

Irrigation department officials are being instructed to arrange speedboats in Tapan, Gangarampur, Balurghat and Kumarganj blocks. According to an Irrigation department official, mass awareness drive has been conducted in villages of all eight blocks.

"We have requested the residents to inform them officially if they notice any damage in any important river bridge. Faulty sluice-gates are being repaired on an emergency basis. Villagers residing close to rivers, particularly in low land areas, are being instructed to stay alert. We have arranged three speedboats already. We have asked for more speedboats from the state government too," said an Irrigation department official.

The local meteorological department has also been directed to forecast the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the region, so that advance steps can be taken.

District administration has also stressed on close communication among the officials of various departments. A separate WhatsApp group has been formed regarding the issue.

Additional district magistrate of South Dinajpur Krittibas Nayak said: "We have made necessary arrangements already in advance to tackle flood-like situation. Leaves of government officials have been suspended until the monsoon is over. We have sent requirement for various emergency material from the state. We have been monitoring the situation closely."