SRINAGAR: Out of the 120 families affected by the 2005 Waltengoo snowstorm in District Kulgam, 70 have been rehabilitated, while 44 families still await proper settlement. In a meeting chaired by Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forests, and Tribal Affairs, senior officials reviewed the ongoing rehabilitation efforts and discussed plans for addressing the needs of the remaining families.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Principal Secretary Chandraker Bharti, and Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir attended the meeting.
Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir reported that work on three apartment blocks for unrehabilitated families has been completed by up to 80 per cent. These projects will now be included in the district’s capex plan, with the necessary administrative approvals already secured.
Minister Rana stressed the urgency of establishing a model colony for these families, equipped with essential amenities such as schools, hospitals, and better infrastructure. He assured that the government is committed to improving the quality of life for the tribal community, including creating livelihood opportunities to support their settlement.
The Chief Secretary confirmed that sufficient funds are available for tribal welfare and directed the district administration to propose a detailed plan for completing the remaining rehabilitation work. Further discussions also focused on the readiness of the Tribal Research Institute and the staffing of District Tribal offices.
