After a long wait, there is some movement in the matter of the Government responding to the recommendations of National Disaster Management Authority. In a meeting of the State Executive Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary of the State, sanction has been given to the creation of four Emergency Operation Centres, one each in Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and Ladakh. A sum of 18 crore rupees has been sanctioned for purchase of equipment required for carrying out rescue operation during natural calamities and for post disaster relief and rehabilitation. While directing setting up of these Emergency Operation Centres by March 31, 2014, Chief Secretary sanctioned Rs 2 crore each for such centres in Jammu and Srinagar while as rupees one crore each for two districts of Ladakh region. The purpose of establishing emergency operation centres is to provide immediate succour to the people if they are affected by natural disaster during the course of their journey along the National Highway. As we know, road accidents happen recurrently along the Highway for one reason or the other. Many victims of accidents whether as a result of motor accident or avalanches, could be saved if they receive medical assistance in time. At present we do not have any effective arrangement of providing immediate help to the victims. If these Emergency Operation Centres function as desired, it is possible that the Government might think of opening more of these in future. It was a direly needed measure and is welcome. But we would emphasise the point that these centres have to be functional throughout the year and should be able to deliver the goods.
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