Himachal CM Sukhu directs for setting up more automatic weather stations, observatory

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 17 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while presiding over a high-level meeting on Wednesday evening, directed the concerned departments to take appropriate steps to increase the number of Automatic Weather Stations (AWS). CM Sukhu also stressed on setting up a weather observatory centre in the state. 
More AWS in the state will help in obtaining real-time data related to weather forecasts, which would further help in taking apposite measures, well within time, an offical statement from Himachal Government said on Thursday. 
Effective steps should be taken to fortify the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and it should be provided updated equipment and technology to deal with emergent situations, said CM, adding that more hi-tech machinery to lift heavy structures and cutting heavy bar enforcements were required to save the lives trapped underneath in case of any mishap as witnessed in the capital recently, added the statement further. 
The Chief Minister said, “Due to heavy rains, a large number of trees was uprooted in different areas of the state, cutting and disposal of these trees and logs should be ensured properly.”
Sukhu also emphasized afforestation drives after normalcy returns. Following road blockades in Kullu district, Sukhu directed the authorities to make arrangements for a standby helicopter to airlift the critically ill patients. 
He also sought information from the officers about the relief and rescue works being carried out in different areas of the state and directed them to provide all possible help to the disaster-affected people.
Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu, Principal Secretaries, Secretaries and other senior officers attended the meeting.