A review meeting was held at the Collectorate in Krishnagiri to assess the preparedness for the southwest monsoon. The meeting involved line departments such as Revenue Administration, Rural Development, Local Body Administration, Water Resources, Public Health, Animal Husbandry, Police, Fire and Rescue Services. The aim of the meeting was to determine the emergency response capacities, relief apparatus, and vulnerable areas in the district.

During the meeting, District Collector K. M. Sarayu instructed officials to keep village/ward level maps of vulnerable areas and to remain connected with first-level respondents at the village level. It was also emphasized to identify newly vulnerable areas and prepare relief centers with adequate basic facilities in such areas. The first-level respondent committees were advised to include an adequate number of women and volunteers for better response.

Additionally, the Collector instructed officials to maintain a list of at least 10 contact details of block-level first-level respondents for quick reference. Information on snake catchers, availability of inflatable boats, motor boats, diesel generators, tree cutting equipment, and earth movers at the block level should also be made available.

Safety measures were also discussed during the meeting. It was suggested to assess the structural safety of public buildings and implement necessary precautions. Desilting of waterbodies, channels, and culverts, as well as the conversion of unused open wells into water harvesting bodies, were emphasized. School buildings’ structural safety and provision of basic amenities were to be ensured, and open drains in school campuses were to be covered to prevent waterlogging.

To safeguard the public during the monsoon, it was advised to monitor the whereabouts of children and prevent them from approaching waterbodies. People residing in low-level areas near River Thenpennai were urged not to bathe their livestock in the river or cross it.

For more information, click [here](https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/district-collector-reviews-southwest-monsoon-preparedness-in-krishnagiri/article66992830.ece).