SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Sunday expressed grief over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by landslides and flash floods triggered by torrential rain and cloudbursts in the border districts of Poonch and Rajouri.
In a statement, Abdullah conveyed his condolences to the families of those killed in the disaster and expressed solidarity with them. Referring to reports that at least 10 people had died while several others were feared trapped under debris, he called for all possible efforts to save lives and assist those affected.
He lauded the efforts of the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), civil administration and local volunteers for continuing rescue and relief operations despite difficult weather conditions and challenging terrain.
The National Conference president said the government had launched large-scale operations to clear debris and restore road connectivity to villages cut off by landslides, deploying heavy machinery and manpower. He also noted that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was personally monitoring rescue and relief efforts.
Expressing concern over the scale of devastation, Abdullah said the flash floods and landslides had damaged houses, vehicles, roads, bridges and other public and private infrastructure. He urged the government to conduct an immediate assessment of losses and provide adequate financial assistance to affected families.
He also appealed to the administration to ensure immediate arrangements for shelter, food and other essential supplies for people displaced by the disaster and to begin rehabilitation on a war footing.
Highlighting the impact of heavy rains in other parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Kishtwar and Gurez, Abdullah called for the early restoration of road connectivity to ease hardships faced by residents.
Meanwhile, senior National Conference leader and Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad, Rajya Sabha MP Sajad Ahmad Kichloo and Poonch MLA Ajaz Jan also expressed grief over the loss of life and property. The party said the leaders remained in touch with the local administration and were closely monitoring the ongoing rescue and relief operations.
