MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq has stressed the need for taking all possible measures to keep all roads across the state open for traffic during the monsoon season, as the national weather forecasting department predicts more rains in the country, including AJK.

The AJK premier made these assertions while chairing a high-level meeting convened in Kashmir House Islamabad specifically to assess the damages caused by monsoon rains to road infrastructure in AJK.

Speaking on the occasion, the prime minister directed authorities to cancel the leaves of officers and staff of all departments concerned, including the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), emergency helpline 1222, National Highway Authority (NHA), police, administration, and other related institutions for the next two months.

He stressed the importance of staying vigilant to deal with any emergency situation that may arise.The PM also prioritized the restoration of the alternative 7-km road from Kohala to Muzaffarabad for heavy traffic. He underscored the necessity of ensuring that this crucial route remains operational to facilitate the movement of goods and people during the monsoon season.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister directed the concerned authorities to submit daily reports regarding the closure and maintenance of roads. “These reports are essential for timely interventions and ensuring that disruptions are minimised,” he said.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Communications Chaudhry Azhar Sadiq and Chief Secretary Dawood Muhammad Bareech. Director General of the SDMA, Masoodur Rehman, along with the Commissioner and DIG of Muzaffarabad, and officers of the NHA participated through video conferencing.

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2024