Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday undertook an extensive tour of flood-affected areas in Rajouri district to assess the scale of destruction caused by recent devastating flash floods, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to ensuring timely relief, rehabilitation and restoration of damaged infrastructure.
During the visit, the Chief Minister called on the family of Abdul Ghani, a Jal Shakti (PHE) daily-wage worker who lost his life after being swept away by flash floods while on night duty at a water supply pumping station in the Kote Behrote area of Thanna Mandi sub-division. Expressing profound grief, he conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of the Government’s full support during this difficult period.
The Chief Minister later inspected the damaged Circular Road in Rajouri, where nearly 200 metres of the stretch was washed away in the flash floods of July 19. He also visited the flood-hit Aitey area to assess the extensive damage to residential structures, public infrastructure and local connectivity, directing concerned departments to expedite restoration works and adopt protective measures to safeguard vulnerable locations against future calamities.
Continuing his tour, the Chief Minister visited the severely affected Bela Bus Stand, where he took first-hand stock of the damage to the bus stand and adjoining public infrastructure and commercial establishments. Interacting with local residents and officials on the ground, he directed the district administration to ensure early restoration of essential services and public amenities for the affected population.
The Chief Minister also visited the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri, which had been declared unsafe following the floods. Taking stock of the structural damage, he assured that the Government would take appropriate measures to address the issue and ensure the smooth functioning of the district administration in the interim.
The July 19 flash floods caused widespread destruction across parts of Rajouri district, damaging roads, public buildings and residential areas, and claiming lives in several locations. The Chief Minister’s visit is aimed at ensuring that relief and restoration efforts on the ground are being carried out on a war footing, with the administration directed to prioritise the needs of the worst-hit families and vulnerable areas.
