In a responsive measure, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced during a visit to Duggain, Billawar, that the Jammu and Kashmir government will grant five marlas of land to families impacted by recent floods. This decision targets families who have suffered immense losses due to the destruction of homes and land caused by incessant rainfall and landslides.
The Chief Minister shared this information while interacting with local residents, stressing the need for urgent assistance. He conducted an aerial survey over the flood-affected districts to gauge the extensive impact first-hand, accompanied by MLA Bani, Dr. Rameshwar Singh.
In his address, Abdullah stated, “The year 2025 has brought immense devastation to Jammu and Kashmir—from the dry spell in March-April to incessant rains, flash floods, and landslides in August-September.” He highlighted that the damage from these disasters spans across the region from Kathua to Kupwara.
As a result of these calamities, over 350 bridges sustained damage, the road network spanning around 2,000 km suffered severely, and significant agricultural lands were devastated. Many standing crops perished, affecting both governmental and private infrastructures. Abdullah emphasized, “Given the enormity of restoration challenges, Jammu and Kashmir seeks a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package from the Central Government.”
His visit to the remote areas aimed to gather ground realities regarding the damage. The Chief Minister later outlined the importance of thorough assessments, especially in highly affected regions like Hiranagar and Lakhanpur, which are vital entry points into the Union Territory.
Engaging directly with district officials, Abdullah convened a meeting with senior civil and police officers, including Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma. He instructed the DC to conduct site visits and prepare detailed reports on the flood’s aftermath.
MLA Dr. Rameshwar Singh chimed in, pointing out severe erosion of land and property in his constituency, particularly in villages like Moar, Najote, and Kanthal-Majra. He estimated that nearly 100 families faced total loss of land and demanded the immediate allotment of five marlas for these affected individuals.
Singh also emphasized other pressing matters: damage to critical infrastructures such as Jalana Bridge, delays in educational projects like High School Lohai, and requested an amnesty on KCC loans and electricity bills for the victims.
In response, Abdullah assured Singh that the government would take all concerns seriously and extend support to the flood-affected families. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring timely relief and rehabilitation plans are implemented for those grappling with the repercussions of the floods.
This initiative symbolizes the government’s recognition of the challenges faced by vulnerable families in flood-prone areas, aiming to restore a semblance of normalcy in their lives.
