Catastrophic Floods Inflict Misery on Jammu & Kashmir Inhabitants
In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, heavy rains and unregulated construction activity near the Tawi River have led to flooding and landslides, causing extensive damage and loss.
Residents in various localities, including Jammu city and Kishtwar, have been affected by the floods. In Jammu, several areas have been submerged, leading residents to wade through knee-deep water to move to safer places. The city has been severely affected, with extensive property damage reported.
In Kishtwar, houses in Margi village of Warwan have been damaged, and essential services like power and water supply have been affected. Heavy rainfall in the area has also left many regions inundated.
The Jhelum river has breached its embankment in Kashmir, flooding several houses and bringing back memories of the 2014 floods, when people had to abandon their homes.
Former Minister and senior Congress leader, G.M. Saroori, reported that in Margi, several houses were damaged due to heavy rains, and there were losses in drinking water and electricity supply, as well as damage to public infrastructure and livestock.
Sukesh Khajuria, a Jammu resident, expressed concern about the potential for the Jhelum to swell again if the weather remains bad, which could lead to a flood-like situation. In some areas, vehicles have even been swept away.
The flooding and landslides have resulted in the loss of at least 40 lives, including 30 pilgrims. The districts of Jammu and Kishtwar are the worst-hit areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has urged the suspension of shikara rides and boating in all water bodies due to the predicted heavy rains. Residents in Srinagar heaved a sigh of relief after the drop in the water level of the Jhelum River, but the Meteorological Centre Srinagar predicted heavy rains and gusty winds in certain areas.
In response to the disaster, the Chief Minister of Jammu, Omar Abdullah, has stated that the assessment of damages due to floods is being undertaken to pursue a financial package with the Government of India. In a meeting to review relief and restoration measures in Jammu, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for relief delivery and arrangements for those whose houses have been damaged.
The flooding and landslides in other parts of the Union Territory have also caused losses and damage to houses. The Chief Minister has expressed concern and is taking steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
