Srinagar/Jammu, July 19, KDC: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday reviewed the situation arising out of flash floods and incessant rainfall in Rajouri and Poonch districts, assuring all possible assistance to affected families as rescue and relief operations continued in the worst-hit areas.
Expressing profound anguish over the devastation caused by flash floods in Rajouri, the Chief Minister said he had been closely monitoring the situation since early morning and remained in constant touch with local legislators and district officials to ensure timely rescue and relief measures.
“While the situation continues to unfold, the first priority of the administration is to safeguard precious lives. The government will do everything possible to aid and assist affected people who have suffered loss of life, property and damage due to the heavy rains, flash floods and landslides,” Omar Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister also expressed grief over the loss of lives in Poonch due to flash floods and landslides and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He directed the administration, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police and other agencies to ensure that all possible assistance reaches the affected families without delay.
In view of the prevailing weather conditions and the Meteorological Department’s warning, Omar Abdullah said he would leave Delhi on Sunday afternoon to reach Jammu and personally monitor the situation on the ground.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the rescue and relief operations in Rajouri and Poonch and directed Deputy Commissioners and senior officials to provide immediate assistance to all affected families while ensuring emergency teams remain fully prepared.
In a post on X, the Lieutenant Governor said rescue teams comprising the civil administration, police, Army, SDRF and local volunteers were actively engaged in relief operations in Rajouri and that affected families had already been shifted to safer locations.
The Lieutenant Governor also expressed grief over the loss of lives in Rajouri and the Haveli and Surankote areas of Poonch and directed officials to expedite relief, restoration and rehabilitation efforts in the affected districts.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, stay calm and follow official advisories as intermittent rainfall continues across parts of the Jammu region. (KDC)
