Glacier Lake Threat: Uttarakhand Orders Real-Time Monitoring, 24×7 Alert

Dehradun: Uttarakhand Disaster Management Minister Madan Kaushik has directed officials to adopt advanced technology for real-time monitoring of glacier lakes and strengthen early warning systems to reduce disaster risks.

Reviewing the situation at the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) on Sunday, Kaushik stressed the use of satellite imagery, drones, remote sensing and sensor-based systems to track changes in glacier lakes.

Amid continuous rainfall, he directed all departments to remain on 24×7 alert, with close monitoring of river levels, landslides, blocked roads and essential services. Adequate JCBs, rescue teams and equipment should be pre-positioned in vulnerable areas.

Authorities were also instructed to operate travel services according to weather and road conditions, maintain round-the-clock river surveillance and keep alternative communication systems ready in remote areas.

Kaushik called for special monitoring of pregnant women, elderly people, persons with disabilities and critically ill patients in vulnerable areas.

He also directed local bodies to intensify dengue prevention measures, including fogging, anti-larval spraying, sanitation drives and ensuring adequate testing kits, medicines, beds and medical staff at health facilities.

Himalayan Live Bureau