Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced today that the Jammu and Kashmir government will provide five marlas of land each to families affected by the recent devastating floods. This initiative aims to support those who lost their homes and land due to flash floods and landslides, allowing them to rebuild their lives.
Abdullah made the announcement during an interaction with residents in Duggain, Billawar, a region severely impacted by the flooding. His visit follows an aerial survey he conducted with MLA Bani, Dr. Rameshwar Singh, to assess the damage.
“The year 2025 has brought immense devastation. From the dry spell in March-April to incessant rains, flash floods, and landslides in August-September, the suffering has been widespread,” Abdullah stated. “The destruction stretches from Kathua to Kupwara, marking an unprecedented crisis.”
Statistics reveal the scale of the calamity. Torrential rains damaged over 350 bridges and approximately 2,000 km of roads, affecting thousands of hectares of agricultural land and washing away crops. Both government and private properties suffered severe damages.
Considering the extensive challenges, the Chief Minister emphasized the urgency for a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package from the Central Government. He described these measures as essential for navigating the immense challenges ahead for Jammu and Kashmir.
Abdullah’s visit to the isolated areas aimed at understanding ground realities exemplifies his commitment. He also conducted an aerial survey of the damage in Hiranagar and Lakhanpur, key entry points to Jammu and Kashmir.
After his visits, Abdullah convened a meeting with the district administration, headed by Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma. He instructed Sharma to tour the affected areas and submit detailed reports promptly.
During the meeting, MLA Bani, Dr. Rameshwar Singh, shed light on the extensive damage in the Bani region due to landslides fueled by heavy rains. He noted that villages such as Moar, Najote, and Kanthal-Majra suffered greatly, with nearly 100 families losing their land and property completely.
Dr. Singh urged the government to expedite the allotment of five marlas of land to displaced families. Additionally, he raised issues relating to the Jalana Bridge damage, delays in work for High School Lohai, and the urgent need for amnesty on KCC loans and electricity bills for the victims.
In response, Abdullah assured that the government would take these demands seriously and provide necessary support to affected families. The administration’s proactive approach aims to streamline relief processes and tackle the aftermath of the catastrophic floods.
