<span style="color: #222222;">In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, extending the much-needed relief to the people of snow bound areas, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha declared 'Heavy Snowfall' as state-specific Natural Calamity under SDRF norms. AIR Jammu Correspondent reports that the LG was chairing a meeting to take stock of winter management, particularly, snow clearance efforts of Administration, with all DCs and SSPs of Kashmir Division, through virtual mode, at Raj Bhavan Jammu today.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Pertinently, 'Heavy Snowfall' was not figuring in the list of 'Natural Calamities' under SDRF norms, due to which disbursement of relief and ex-gratia for the damages due to heavy snowfall was not possible for Districts' Disaster Management Authorities. The LG sought a detailed report on issues and problems faced by the public due to heavy snowfall and future course of action of the Administration at all levels to overcome the challenges. The LG directed that 4×4 rescue vehicles/ambulances should be provided to snow-affected districts with immediate effect for helping the people in distress. He lauded the efforts of employees working 24×7 on the ground in challenging climatic conditions. The LG directed for rationalizing deployment of machinery and equipment for snow clearance from the roads, besides making necessary emergency facilities available to render critical help in contingent situations.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">He also took a detailed district-wise review of the overall status of power scenario, snow clearance, road connectivity, water supply, essential supplies, disaster management, food supplies, availability of Power buffer stock and other issues.</span><br />''  <br />