J&K CM Omar visits flood affected areas of Rajouri, assures all possible support from govt
Jammu, Aug 6
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Thursday visited the flood affected areas of Rajouri district and assured all possible support to the affected families from the government.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today visited several flood-affected areas of Rajouri district to assess the damage caused to homes, livelihoods and public infrastructure.
He interacted with affected families, expressed solidarity with them and assured all possible assistance and support from the government.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's office said on X, "The Chief Minister assured the affected people of all possible assistance and support from the government and took stock of the situation arising from the recent floods.
"He also reviewed the impact of the damage caused to public infrastructure and livelihoods in the affected areas".
Severe cloudbursts and torrential rains struck Poonch and Rajouri districts in July and August this year triggering catastrophic flash floods and landslides.
The disasters resulted in 11 deaths, numerous collapsed houses, swept away vehicles, and extensive destruction of local roads, bridges, and power lines, prompting high-level rescue and relief operations.
A major cloudburst and landslide on July 19 in the Murrah area of Surankote (Poonch) completely swept away a residential area, killing 8 members of a single family.
Across Poonch and Rajouri districts, at least 11 people lost their lives in rain and cloudburst-related incidents, with several others reported missing as rescue teams combed through debris.
Numerous cattle sheds collapsed across Mendhar and Surankote, killing livestock including many buffaloes and local residents suffered severe structural losses.
Flash floods severely damaged footbridges, local roads, and sections of the Rajouri-Poonch National Highway and internal routes in Thannamandi, Kotranka, and Mendhar.
Many vehicles, including cars and a Tata Sumo, were trapped or washed away by sudden surges of water, particularly in Mastandara (Surankote) and Chhatral (Mendhar).
Power infrastructure, including 33 KV lines from Draba and Manjakote, suffered substantial damage, cutting off electricity to areas many areas in the two districts.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Rabar ki baat hai, these cloudbursts are getting more frequent each year. The government needs to focus on long-term flood prevention infrastructure, not just relief work after the damage is done. Still, appreciate the CM's prompt response.
Losing 11 lives is tragic, especially that poor family in Murrah who lost 8 members at once. CM sahab's visit is a good gesture, but we need to see concrete compensation packages and rebuilding plans for the affected villages. Actions speak louder than assurances.
Finally a CM who goes to the ground and sees the reality. But I have to say, the authorities should have been better prepared. Flash floods in hilly terrain are predicted well in advance with modern technology these days. Let's hope this visit translates into real action, not just photo ops.
Heartbreaking to see the condition of Rajouri and Poonch. The loss of cattle and homes is devastating for these families. The administration must ensure that compensation is not just announced but actually reaches the affected people without corruption. CM Omar ji, please keep a close watch on the relief distribution.
It's reassuring to see local leadership taking disasters seriously. The infrastructure damage to roads and power lines in these remote areas is substantial, and recovery will take time. I hope the central government also steps in with adequate support since these are national assets that need rebuilding.
K We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.