Dumka steps up Shravani Mela preparations
PNS
Dumka
Dumka Deputy Commissioner Abhijit Sinha on Wednesday chaired three high-level task force meetings and issued a series of directives aimed at improving road safety, strengthening fire safety measures and curbing illegal mining activities across the district.
Reviewing preparations for Shravani Mela 2026, Sinha directed concerned departments to complete repairs of all major highways and key link roads before the beginning of the holy month of Shrawan. He warned that delays or poor-quality work affecting the movement of pilgrims and residents would invite strict action.
To improve road safety, the Road Task Force was instructed to intensify vehicle-checking drives and strictly enforce rules against drunk driving and repeat traffic offenders. The Deputy Commissioner also made GPS installation mandatory in all school buses operating in the district and directed authorities to remove illegal encroachments from roads and transport corridors. Pending hit-and-run compensation cases were ordered to be resolved on priority.
During a review of fire safety measures, Sinha directed the Sub-Divisional Officer to conduct surprise inspections of private hospitals, nursing homes and hotels. Institutions have been asked to ensure functional fire-fighting equipment and unobstructed emergency exits. He warned that violations of fire safety norms would attract penalties and possible closure.
The District Mining Task Force meeting focused on tackling illegal mining and transportation of minerals. The administration will deploy drones for surveillance of vulnerable mining areas and intensify checks on mineral-carrying vehicles. Officials have been directed to verify permits and lease documents during inspections.
The Deputy Commissioner also announced a ban on sand lifting from all river sand ghats in Dumka from June 10 to October 15, 2026, in compliance with National Green Tribunal guidelines. Officials have been instructed to seize vehicles and register FIRs against violators.
Senior district officials, including transport, mining, forest, health and police officers, attended the meetings.
