Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, has announced that extensive restoration efforts are currently in progress following severe rain, flash floods, and landslides that have impacted Rajouri and Poonch districts. In a statement on X, Sinha indicated that he has directed senior officials, including the Deputy Commissioners of both districts, to carry out comprehensive damage assessments. Various government departments are collaborating to facilitate rescue, relief, and restoration operations in the affected areas.

During his communication, Sinha revealed that crucial steps are being taken to reopen essential roads and restore disrupted power and water supplies. According to his statement, out of 435 damaged roads, 356 have already been repaired. The Lieutenant Governor emphasised the urgency of these efforts and the importance of coordinating within departments to expedite recovery efforts.

Caution Urged for Residents in Affected Areas

The Lieutenant Governor also advised the public to refrain from unnecessary travel in areas vulnerable to further damage and to adhere to safety advisories provided by local administrations. He highlighted the teamwork of various organisations, including the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Army, amongst others, who have been deployed for on-ground relief operations. He expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss of lives due to this natural disaster and conveyed condolences to the affected families.

Additionally, Sinha pointed out that Quick Response teams are actively engaged in the most vulnerable regions during these challenging circumstances. The coordinated efforts are aimed at ensuring public safety and addressing the immediate needs of the residents impacted by the flooding.

Prioritising Restoration of Essential Services

During a press interaction, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, stated that the primary focus remains on restoring essential services, with a particular emphasis on electricity supply in Rajouri and Poonch. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the adverse weather conditions which have caused significant damage to infrastructure such as power transmission lines, specifically noting the failure of two 132 kV towers in the Poonch region.

Kumar mentioned that restoration efforts commenced shortly after the towers collapsed, and they are optimistic about restoring power by the following morning. Alternative arrangements for water supply are being made using tankers and generators, while road clearance operations continue despite ongoing landslide risks.

He confirmed that telecommunications were initially disrupted but have since been restored due to intervention by higher authorities. Local efforts to reopen roads are ongoing, though some locations remain blocked due to landslides, which will require additional time to resolve.

Impact of Flash Floods on Local Communities

The floods were triggered by continuous heavy rainfall, which led the Rajouri River to overflow, submerging low-lying areas such as Madina Colony and damaging both public and private property. Key infrastructures like the new bus stand were significantly affected, with motor vehicles being swept away by the floodwaters. In the wake of this incident, precautions have been advised by local police, particularly regarding the banks of the Chenab River.

On Sunday, a severe cloudburst in the Surankote area resulted in at least seven fatalities, with ongoing search operations being conducted by integrated teams from the Army and local emergency services for other missing individuals. Authorities continue to address the critical need for safety in light of the natural calamity and are actively working to restore normalcy in the region.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share