Urgent Alert: Parliamentary Panel Exposes Shocking Delays in Life-Saving Telemetry Systems for Flood-Prone Areas
Telemetry System Installations Hit by Delay in Sikkim: Parliamentary Panel Report
A Parliamentary Panel has flagged major delays in the installation of critical telemetry systems designed for real-time data collection and flood forecasting in flood-prone areas. The report on the performance audit of flood control and forecasting schemes, presented to the 17th Lok Sabha and tabled in the 18th Lok Sabha on July 26, stresses the urgent need for timely and efficient flood management.
The report highlighted that all installations, except for three locations, have been completed: Khanabal under the Chenab division, and Sara Thang and Dambong under the Gangtok division. The hold-up at Khanabal is due to an ongoing court case since 2018, while installations at Sara Thang and Dambong have been stalled by the Forest Department’s non-clearance since 2017.
The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti informed the Committee that an alternative site for the Khanabal station has been identified, and installation of the telemetry system is expected to begin soon. However, the Committee expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing delays, particularly for Sikkim’s pending installations.
"The Committee fails to understand the reason for the delay in installation at the newly identified location for Khanabal under the Chenab division," the report stated. It called for concerted efforts to expedite the installation process in Sikkim and other pending sites.
Furthermore, the Panel recommended regular inspections and maintenance for all installed telemetry systems nationwide to ensure their ongoing efficacy.
Urgent action is deemed necessary to avoid further delays and to enhance the preparedness and response capability for flood management across the affected regions.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/sikkim/parliamentary-panel-highlights-telemetry-system-installation-delays-in-critical-flood-prone-areas/article68452898.ece
Category : Sikkim
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