J-K: Flood-affected families shifted to rehabilitation centre in Rajouri amid relief efforts
Rajouri, July 25
Flood-affected families have been relocated to a rehabilitation centre near Rajouri as authorities continue relief and rehabilitation efforts following flooding in the region.
Recent flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district caused extensive damage to power infrastructure, washing away 15 transformers and damaging around 200 others, leading to widespread disruption of electricity supply across the district, Power Development Department (PDD) authorities said on Friday.
PDD Executive Engineer, Javed Akhtar, stated that power restoration work is currently underway on a war footing. Electricity has already been restored in several affected areas, while restoration work continues in the remaining locations.
Senior PDD officers, engineers, field staff, and labourers are working together around the clock to restore the damaged network. Due to the scale of destruction, additional manpower was deployed, and residents are also assisting the department in the restoration efforts.
The operation remains challenging as several electric poles were either washed away or severely damaged by the floods. Despite these difficulties, the PDD continues its large-scale restoration drive to restore power to all affected areas as quickly as possible.
Earlier this week, continuous rainfall in Reasi and upper catchment areas triggered a surge in water inflow into the Salal reservoir, prompting authorities to open all gates of the dam to regulate the rising water level.
The increased inflow and release of water from the dam have caused the Chenab River to swell, with strong currents and elevated water levels being witnessed downstream.
Heavy rainfall lashed the Reasi region for several hours, leading to a significant rise in water inflow into the Chenab River and Salal Dam reservoir. Authorities closely monitored weather conditions and the river's water level.
People, particularly those living in low-lying areas and along the banks of the Chenab, have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid venturing close to the river.
Since Tuesday morning, the district administration and Rajouri Police issued advisories urging residents to remain alert amid fears of rising river water levels, flash floods, landslides and waterlogging.
People have been asked to remain indoors unless travel is essential and cooperate with the administration. In case of an emergency, residents have been advised to immediately contact the local administration or emergency services.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Seeing the Chenab River swell from the Salal dam releases and the heavy rainfall is quite alarming. Those advisories for low-lying areas make sense. It's good that the authorities are responding quickly with relief measures and that residents are also helping the PDD team. Community effort is key in such natural disasters.
The damage to power infrastructure is huge. 200 transformers damaged and 15 completely washed away — it will take weeks to fully restore. But I'm glad to see the PDD deploying extra manpower and working 'round the clock. People should also avoid going near the river for now. The authorities are doing what they can under difficult conditions.
It's heartbreaking to think of these families being shifted to rehabilitation centres. 😞 The flooding in J&K always hits hard, especially in remote areas like Rajouri. I hope the administration is providing proper food, shelter, and medical care there. Kudos to the residents helping the PDD—real 'desh seva' spirit.
A valid point: while relief is underway, there is a need for better long-term flood preparedness in Rajouri and similar areas. The number of transformers lost shows how vulnerable the power grid is. Why aren't we installing more flood-resistant poles and elevated substations? Immediate aid is necessary, but prevention is better than cure.
Glad to see district administration and police issuing advisories early. People need to stay cautious and not take risks. The sight of the Chenab swelling up after heavy rain is scary. Let's hope the weather improves soon and all affected get the support they need. Stay safe
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.