SAMBA: Deputy Commissioner Samba, Abhishek Sharma today chaired a meeting to review preparation for Diwali festivities in the district.
The meeting’s primary focus was to ensure that all concerned departments are fully prepared to enhance the festive spirit and ensure safety in the district. The Additional Director of Food Safety (AD Food Safety) was instructed to conduct sample testing to prevent adulteration by sweets shops. The enforcement departments were asked to furnish a prompt report to the ADC in this regard.
The Municipal Committee/Councils were directed to maintain cleanliness and to organize the Beopar Mandal Meetings to encourage their involvement in the process. Emphasis was placed on promoting handmade items over plastic, and a campaign to reduce plastic usage.
Permission for the use of firecrackers has been vested to DM/ADM/SDM, with strict enforcement by Tehsildars, FES to ensure proper spacing in the market areas, prioritizing fire safety.
The Health Department was tasked with ensuring first aid and emergency healthcare services during the festivities.
The District Information Officer will oversee Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities to ensure effective publicity.
The Power Development Department (PDD) was directed to provide uninterrupted power supply during the celebrations. The Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) was assigned to monitor traffic and the availability of parking spaces. No vehicles will be allowed in market areas to ensure adequate space for emergency evacuation. This responsibility was shared with the Municipal Committee and Tehsildars.
Border areas were urged to ensure the use of low-noise firecrackers to minimize disruptions. The Agriculture Department was tasked with counseling farmers to safeguard their harvesting areas and cover heaps to prevent them from catching fire.The Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department was assigned to ensure a consistent water supply throughout the Diwali period.
DC emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to make Diwali in District Samba safe, clean, and enjoyable for all residents and visitors.