SDRF deployed, Army kept on standby for emergency response
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
Haryana’s Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij said the Ambala Cantonment administration is on high alert following information of increased water flow in the Tangri River. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been called in, and directions have been issued to the Deputy Commissioner for coordinating with the Army to remain on standby.
Responding to media queries today regarding heavy rainfall, waterlogging and drainage in Ambala, Vij said senior officials, including the Cantonment SDM and the Executive Officer of the Municipal Council, have been inspecting the vulnerable areas. Due to continuous rainfall, blockages often occur under culverts, and steps are being taken to clear them immediately.
He added that all councillors and officials formed teams early this morning and have been visiting their respective wards from 6 am onwards to assess conditions and ensure swift remedial action.
Vij further stated that the government had earlier constructed an 8-kilometre-long permanent embankment on the Tangri River, which is today providing safety to Ambala Cantonment. “Recently, when the river carried a flow of 38,000 cusecs, the embankment protected the cantonment area,” he said.
The Minister said that damage occurred only to those who had constructed houses within the riverbed of Tangri. Despite repeated warnings to vacate, some people did not comply. Later, they had to be rescued with the help of SDRF and the administration using boats, and arrangements were made for their accommodation and food. He added that voluntary organizations have also been engaged to provide meals in the affected areas.
Vij said the administration remains fully alert and all necessary precautionary measures have been taken to safeguard the people of Ambala Cantonment.