Srinagar/Jammu, Sep 05 (KNO): After days of relentless rains, cloudbursts and landslides that wreaked havoc across Jammu and Kashmir, people have begun the process of rebuilding and cleaning their homes.
Pertinently, in recent weeks, natural disasters in the Union Territory have claimed over 150 lives and caused widespread destruction of property.
Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), that the 4th Tawi Bailey Bridge at Bhagwati Nagar in Jammu was opened for light motor vehicles on Friday, easing congestion in the city where traffic had been severely disrupted by the floods.
The official said that there's a possibility that the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway will be reopened on Saturday if weather conditions remain favourable.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said the rehabilitation process was gaining pace but critical challenges remained. “The road from Gulabgarh to Chashoti, which is a vital link to the spot that suffered the cloudburst tragedy, is still blocked and may require heavy equipment to remove the blockade. Authorities are working with the target of clearing it by late evening,” he said.
The pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in Reasi district, however, remained suspended for the 11th consecutive day. The yatra was halted after a landslide on August 26 claimed 34 lives and injured 20 others. “Yatra is still suspended. This is due to the decision taken by authorities last week, keeping in view the safety of pilgrims. A decision to resume will be taken after reviewing all aspects,” an official said.
In Panchayat Bali of Udhampur district, a massive landslide has left more than 50 houses completely destroyed and several others partially damaged. Residents have appealed to the government to provide immediate compensation and relief to the affected families.
Ramesh Kumar, whose house was reduced to rubble, said, “We have lost everything, our homes, cattle, and fields. The government must step in quickly so that we can start rebuilding our lives.”.
Another villager, added, “We are living in temporary shelters with no proper food or water. Winter is approaching, and without compensation or support, survival will become even more difficult.”
Officials said assessment teams have been sent to the area to record the extent of the damage.
Another top official said a team from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is on the ground inspecting areas affected by heavy rains, floods, and landslides, while major rehabilitation measures are being undertaken by the government. Multiple surveys are being conducted in flood-hit regions of J&K, and compensation will be provided after assessments are completed.
Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly Sunil Sharma visited flood-hit areas in Reasi, including Markulle village and the BSF post at Mala Bela, along with MLA Akhnoor Mohan Lal. He assured residents of timely relief and rehabilitation. Officials said land subsidence in Reasi’s Bagga Jameslan and Sarh had damaged 50 houses, forcing villagers to evacuate.
SRINAGAR, BANDIPORA, SOUTH KASHMIR
Meanwhile, floodwaters continued to affect several areas. In Srinagar’s Hajam Mohalla, locals said water levels were still rising. “Our ground floors are filled with water, and despite some sunshine, the situation is not easing here,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a resident. In Bandipora, the rising water in Wular Lake forced the evacuation of families from low-lying villages.
In South Kashmir, residents in flood-hit low-lying areas reported gradual improvement. “Water has started receding from our homes. We are cleaning whatever is left, though most of our belongings are destroyed,” said Naseema Begum from Pulwama. Local orchards have also suffered heavy losses.
Fruit growers have urged the government to announce a special compensation package to cover damages.
PREZ MURMU EXPRESSES ANGUISH
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her anguish over the widespread devastation in J&K and other states. “Cloudbursts in the hills and floods in the plains have taken a heavy toll. The nation shares the sorrow of the people affected by calamities and is with them in this crisis. I commend the spirit of those involved in rescue and relief,” she said.
"I have been deeply anguished every time I have come to know about natural calamities during the monsoon this year. Cloudbursts in the hills and floods in the plains have taken a heavy toll, leaving death and destruction in their wake in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Assam and many other parts of the country," she said.
The President said that the nation shares the sorrow of the people affected by calamities and is with them in this crisis. "I commend the spirit of those involved in the rescue and relief operations. Together we will overcome this challenge," she added—(KNO)