Mian Altaf Ahmad safe after landslide hits convoy vehicle in J&K's Poonch
Jammu, July 22
Senior Jammu and Kashmir leader and Lok Sabha member Mian Altaf Ahmad escaped unhurt on Wednesday when a vehicle in his convoy was hit by a landslide on the Poonch-Jammu National Highway.
Speaking to IANS, Mian Altaf said he was fine and had crossed the landslide when one of the vehicles in his cavalcade was hit by debris. He said all personnel in that vehicle were safe.
Mian Altaf has been camping in Rajouri for the last few days to address the problems of flood sufferers. He has been visiting remote areas affected by landslides and crossing swollen streams and braving the vagaries of weather to be with the suffering people.
He had a narrow escape after a landslide struck one of the vehicles in his convoy on the Jammu-Poonch National Highway while he was returning from flood-hit areas of Poonch district, officials said.
Later, he posted on his X handle, "After Poonch, Reached Rajouri today to asses the ground situation arisen due to the Flashfloods and landslides in the area. On the way towards Rajouri a landslide had occurred blocking the road, however managed to reach Rajouri safely."
According to reports, the incident occurred on a vulnerable stretch of the highway where heavy rainfall triggered landslides and falling debris. A vehicle accompanying the MP's convoy was hit by rocks, causing damage.
However, Mian Altaf and all other occupants escaped without injuries. The incident comes amid continuing heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir, which has led to multiple landslides, road blockages, and disruption of traffic on several highways, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
Authorities have repeatedly advised commuters to avoid unnecessary travel through landslide-prone areas until weather conditions improve. Earlier, Mian Altaf had toured several flood-affected areas in Poonch to assess the extent of damage caused by flash floods and incessant rains.
During his visit, he met affected families, reviewed the ground situation, and urged the administration to accelerate rescue, relief, rehabilitation, and restoration of essential services in the worst-hit regions.
Officials said the latest incident once again highlights the serious risks posed by the prevailing weather conditions, as rescue teams and road maintenance agencies continue working to restore connectivity and ensure public safety across the region.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to know Mian Altaf ji is safe. But this article highlights how dangerous travel is in J&K during monsoon. Why does the administration never learn? Every year roads get blocked, people suffer. At least he's visiting affected areas—many netas would just send a tweet from Delhi.
Border area MLA risking his life for public service—respect. But let's be honest, politicians always get VIP treatment. What about the common man stuck on same highway without backup? Need systemic change in disaster management, not just individual heroism. Still, glad he's okay. 🇮🇳
These flash floods in Poonch, Rajouri happen every year. Mian Altaf is doing ground work, but we need long-term solutions—check dams, better drainage, and evacuation plans. The administration should not wait for VIP visits to act. Still, hats off to his dedication in tough terrain. 🏔️
Mian Altaf sir's tweet shows he's tech-savvy and active on ground. Good combination for a leader. But question remains—why is NH still vulnerable? We pay taxes for roads that collapse every monsoon. Hope his visit pushes NHAI to finally reinforce this stretch. Stay safe, sir! 🙏
It's heartening to see an MP personally visiting flood-hit areas despite danger. Many politicians would just issue statements. But can we also talk about why relief reaches slower in border districts? Need more proactive measures, not just reactive visits. Proud of our J&K leaders though. 🌧️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.