SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) President Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Thursday expressed deep concern over the widespread devastation caused by the recent floods, accusing the government of failing to provide effective relief.
Yaseen said the unprecedented deluge had claimed lives, destroyed homes, washed away crops and severely damaged the horticulture sector, leaving people in acute distress. “The situation is alarming as many precious lives have been lost, vast tracts of land stand damaged, and numerous houses have collapsed,” he stated.
He criticised the administration for what he termed “symbolic gestures”, alleging that ministers and officials were more focused on photo opportunities than on-ground relief. “People are suffering every day while the authorities appear more interested in publicity-driven tours than in extending genuine help,” Yaseen remarked.
Calling for urgent intervention, the PDF chief demanded a comprehensive relief package from the Centre, immediate damage assessment, and swift compensation to affected families. He stressed that those who lost loved ones must receive adequate relief and displaced households should be rehabilitated without delay.
Highlighting the heavy losses to the horticulture sector, Yaseen said apple orchards—the backbone of Kashmir’s economy had been extensively damaged and called upon the Horticulture Department to ensure timely compensation to growers.
He also urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to send a special team to assess the damages independently, insisting that transparent evaluation was vital for effective rehabilitation. “Practical measures on the ground are far more important than high-profile meetings and photo sessions,” Yaseen said, adding that the people of Jammu and Kashmir expect immediate relief, rehabilitation, and restoration.
