Jammu and Kashmir Flood Relief: CM Omar Abdullah Seeks Centre’s Aid for Affected Regions

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently visited the flood-affected Kalaban border area in Poonch district, where he assessed the damage caused by land subsidence and floods. Over 1,000 people have been affected, with more than 95 houses, a graveyard, and a mosque damaged, prompting the need for a comprehensive relief package.

Flood Relief Efforts

Abdullah expressed hope that the Centre will extend a relief package to Jammu and Kashmir, similar to those granted to Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. The state government has been asked to prepare a rehabilitation plan, including the grant of five marlas of land under the existing policy, for Cabinet approval.

The Chief Minister maintained that the administration is in constant communication with the central government, which has constituted a team to visit affected areas in Jammu and Kashmir. The state government will present its demands to the team, seeking a substantial relief package to support rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

Relocation and Rehabilitation

During his visit, Abdullah acknowledged that the affected village has become unsafe due to land subsidence. He stated that people cannot be resettled in areas where the land has sunk or is sinking, and therefore, they will need to be relocated to new, safer areas.

The government already has a scheme in place to provide landless people with five marlas of government land. Following this pattern, the administration has been asked to prepare a proposal for the affected families, which will be presented to the Cabinet for approval.

Outreach and Relief Measures

Abdullah emphasized the government’s commitment to helping people affected by the floods and landslides. He noted that the rains have caused unprecedented damage in Jammu and Kashmir, with hardly any district remaining unaffected.

The Chief Minister assured that the government will utilize its financial resources to ensure relief reaches the affected people, highlighting the need for a collective effort to support the rehabilitation and reconstruction of affected regions.