Omar Abdullah is set to be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir tomorrow, with his cabinet taking oath tomorrow which will offer representation to all regions of the Union Territory.
The representations will be from Jammu region, Pir Panjal, and Chenab Valley. Despite the National Conference (NC) having fewer MLAs from Jammu, efforts are being made to ensure inclusive governance, a party leader told KNS.
Sources within the NC also have revealed that several key legislators are likely to be part of the new cabinet.
These include along with prominent woman leader and MLA DH Pora, Sakeena Itoo. Surinder Choudhary, the “giant killer” from Nowshera who defeated BJP’s Jammu and Kashmir president Ravinder Raina, is also expected to secure a cabinet position, Bureaucrat turned politician Er Farooq Ahmed Shah who defeated heavy weight Ghulam Hassan Mir is likely to be included in the cabinet besides MLA Trehgam from Kupwara district and former law minister Mir Saifullah is also expected to be part of cabinet.
In addition, independent MLA from Chammb, Satish Sharma, who has extended support to the NC, and senior Gujjar leader Javed Rana, elected from Mendhar in Poonch district, are also likely candidates for cabinet posts.
Independent MLA Pyare Lal Sharma, who represents Inderwal constituency in Doda, is expected to be included as well, along with some young faces from the NC.These selections are seen as part of an effort to ensure fair representation for the Pir Panjal region, Jammu, and Chenab Valley.
According to a senior NC leader, the inclusion of leaders like Javed Rana, Surinder Choudhary, Satish Sharma, and Pyare Lal Sharma will help ensure that the government is representative of all regions and communities.Meanwhile, the Congress, the NC’s key alliance partner, is expected to secure one or two ministerial berths.
However, the party’s reduced number of legislators, coupled with the support of five independent MLAs bolstering Omar Abdullah’s position, has limited its bargaining power for additional cabinet positions.
Omar Abdullah has already stated that his government will represent “all regions and groups,” emphasizing that his administration will prioritize inclusive governance. (KNS)
Kashmir’s winters, renowned for their snow-clad beauty, attract tourists from far and wide. Yet, for the local population, these months present severe challenges, ranging from high living costs and electricity shortages to an alarming rise in fire incidents. This article explores both the enchanting and perilous aspects of winter in Kashmir, highlighting the fire hazards that become more prominent as temperatures drop and precautions become essential for ensuring safety.
1. Kashmir’s Winter: A Wonderland for Tourists, a Challenge for Locals Kashmir’s winter season draws visitors from across the globe, eager to experience its snow-capped mountains, pristine landscapes, and charming hill stations. For outsiders, it is a magical winter wonderland, offering activities like skiing, snowboarding, and the simple pleasure of witnessing snowfall. However, beneath this postcard-perfect setting lies a harsh reality for the local population. For them, winter brings a unique set of challenges. From rising living costs to persistent power cuts and dangerous fire incidents, Kashmiri residents must navigate numerous difficulties, which can turn the season of joy into one of struggle and survival.
2. Soaring Vegetable Prices and Electricity Shortages: The Struggles of Kashmiri Winters One of the most immediate challenges during Kashmiri winters is the steep rise in vegetable prices. Due to heavy snowfall, road connectivity is frequently disrupted, making it harder to transport essential goods to the region. This leads to scarcity, and the price of basic vegetables and food items skyrockets, burdening the local population. Additionally, electricity shortages add to the difficulties. Despite government efforts, regular power outages are common during the harsh winter months, leaving people to depend on alternative sources of heat, such as coal and kerosene, which further escalate their living costs.
3. Fire Hazards in Kashmir Rise as Winter Deepens, Urging Safety Measures As winter sets in, the use of coal, kerosene, wood, and LPG becomes widespread in Kashmiri households to counter the freezing temperatures. Unfortunately, these methods of heating increase the risk of fire incidents, which tend to rise sharply during these months. Often, these fires are deadly and destructive, leaving families devastated. In response, the Fire and Emergency Department in Kashmir has intensified its safety campaigns, urging residents to adopt essential fire-prevention measures to avoid catastrophic losses.
4. Fire and Emergency Services in Kashmir Warn of Increased Fire Risks During Dry Months The period from October onwards marks a particularly dangerous time in Kashmir. With dry weather conditions and low humidity levels, the risk of fires becomes much higher. The Fire and Emergency Services in the region have repeatedly stressed the importance of vigilance and preparedness to prevent fires, particularly in residential areas. The department has issued warnings to locals, advising them to be extra cautious with the materials they use for heating and cooking. In homes built largely from wood, the dangers are significantly increased.
5. Preventing Winter Fires in Kashmir: Safety Measures for Homes and Buildings Fire prevention during Kashmiri winters largely depends on individuals taking responsibility for the safety of their homes. The Fire and Emergency Department has outlined simple yet effective safety measures to reduce fire incidents. These include ensuring regular maintenance of LPG connections to prevent leaks, keeping heating appliances well-serviced, and avoiding the overloading of electrical circuits. Additionally, the installation of basic fire safety equipment, such as extinguishers, is encouraged to manage small fires before they spread uncontrollably. Following these guidelines could greatly reduce the number of fire incidents that occur each winter.
6. Kashmir’s Wooden Homes at Risk: Authorities Stress Fire Safety in Construction Traditional Kashmiri homes, constructed mainly from wood, are particularly vulnerable to fires. The region’s reliance on wooden structures adds to the risk, as wood is highly flammable. Officials from the Fire and Emergency Department have urged residents to integrate fire safety designs into their homes, particularly during the construction phase. Measures such as using non-flammable materials where possible, incorporating fire-resistant designs, and ensuring proper ventilation could help reduce the likelihood of fires spreading quickly in wooden buildings.
7. Fire Incidents Surge in Kashmir Winters: Causes, Concerns, and Cautions The causes of winter fires in Kashmir are varied but are mostly linked to human activity and the increased use of heating devices. Common causes include LPG leaks, faulty heating gadgets, and overloaded electrical circuits. As people rely more on heating appliances during the colder months, the risk of short circuits and malfunctions grows. These incidents often result in tragic outcomes, as fires can spread rapidly in closely packed residential areas. Therefore, it is vital for households to take necessary precautions and handle heating equipment with care to avoid accidental fires.
8. Heating Devices and Overloaded Circuits: The Hidden Winter Dangers in Kashmir One of the primary contributors to fire incidents in Kashmir during the winter is the widespread use of heating devices, which can strain electrical systems. Overloaded circuits are a common occurrence as residents use multiple high-power devices to stay warm. Unfortunately, older electrical systems may not be equipped to handle the increased load, leading to short circuits that can spark fires. To combat this, officials have advised people to ensure their wiring is up to date, avoid using faulty gadgets, and be mindful not to overload electrical outlets.
9. Forest Fires in Dry Winter Months: Kashmir Residents Advised to Stay Vigilant Kashmir’s dry winter conditions not only pose a threat to homes but also to the region’s vast forests. Forest fires are a growing concern, particularly in areas where moisture levels drop significantly during the colder months. One small spark can quickly lead to a large-scale blaze, damaging both property and wildlife. Residents living near forested areas are urged to be especially cautious, refraining from leaving open flames unattended and keeping a close eye on any potential fire hazards that could trigger forest fires.
10. Fire Safety Guidelines for Kashmiri Winters: Simple Steps to Prevent Disasters To prevent winter fire incidents in Kashmir, the Fire and Emergency Department has provided a comprehensive list of fire safety tips. These include avoiding the use of outdated or faulty heating gadgets, ensuring LPG connections are properly maintained, and installing fire extinguishers in homes. Other key precautions include not overloading electrical circuits, being cautious with open flames, and ensuring proper ventilation when using heating devices indoors. By following these basic but essential measures, many fire-related tragedies in Kashmir can be avoided, helping to protect lives and property during the challenging winter season.
Winter in Kashmir is a season of contrasts—breathtaking for tourists but fraught with difficulties for locals. Rising food prices, power shortages, and a surge in fire incidents put a strain on the population. Fire hazards, particularly in wooden homes, make safety measures crucial. By following basic fire-prevention tips and using heating devices responsibly, many fire-related accidents can be avoided, ensuring a safer winter for Kashmiri residents.
Member of Parliament from Srinagar and JKNC leader Aga Ruhullah Mehdi Tuesday asked the former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal to apologize to the people of J-K for his stand in 2019 when the centre stripped J-K of its special status and reorganised the state into two different union territories.
Ruhullah’s reaction came after the AAP chief suggested CM-designate Omar Abdullah to consult him if he finds any difficulty to run what he called a ‘half-state’.“He is a part of INDIA bloc, I don’t want to say much, but I want to remind him that J&K is suffering. So before reminding us how to work, he should also introspect and apologise in some ways to the people of J&K, we will give respect to his partnership in the alliance,” news agency PTI quoted Ruhullah as saying.
The MP hoped that Kejriwal has introspected and realised how grave mistake it was, referring to the decisions of August 2019.He further said that he expected Kejriwal to remain a partner in rebuilding the nation while also empowering the people of J-K.
A joint delegation of Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims will soon visit Jammu and Kashmir to initiate a reconciliation dialogue between the two communities. Led by Rakesh Sapru, founder of the National Mission For Unity and Brotherhood and an NCP leader, the delegation aims to foster peace and harmony in the region. The group plans to meet newly elected government representatives, including legislators and ministers, to push for initiatives promoting brotherhood.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has invited National Conference leader Omar Abdullah to take oath as the first chief minister of the union territory on October 16.
The delegation’s first trip will cover districts such as Srinagar, Pulwama, and Anantnag, where they will engage with civil society members, professionals, and Kashmiri Pandits who remained in the valley during the 1990 exodus.
Their objective is to gather views on the current situation and explore avenues for lasting peace.
The mission, focused on preserving the region’s culture and heritage, will work towards improving economic conditions in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. The group also plans to establish skill centers for youth, promote handicrafts globally, and organize cultural shows and seminars to highlight Jammu and Kashmir’s rich heritage.
Workshops, conferences, and handicraft trade shows are part of the mission’s agenda to restore peace, support artisans, and spread cultural awareness throughout India and abroad. (KNS)
Ghulam Hassan Taskeen, a celebrated Kashmiri writer and literary figure from Hajin, has passed away after a long illness on Sunday. Born in 1943, Taskeen made significant contributions to Kashmiri literature, not only as a prolific fiction writer but also as a translator and educator. His influence on Kashmiri literature remains profound and enduring.
Taskeen’s body of work includes anthologies of short stories, poems, and essays, which have been appreciated by readers and critics alike. One of the major highlights of his career was the translation of the renowned Persian poet Sheikh Saadi Shirazi’s Gulistan into Kashmiri. This translation, published in 1988 by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, was met with widespread acclaim, both from scholars and the general public.
Despite being born without a right arm, Taskeen’s dedication to literature, education, and his love for the Kashmiri language never diminished. He pursued higher education, obtaining a Master’s degree in both Kashmiri and Persian from Kashmir University. His commitment to teaching was recognised when he was honoured with the Best Teacher award in 1988.
In addition to his fiction, Taskeen also contributed significantly to translations and literary research. He authored a monograph on the Kashmiri Sufi poet Lal Aragami and translated the monograph of the esteemed Urdu poet Akhtar ul Iman from English, both of which were published by Sahitya Akademi. Taskeen also collaborated with Sona Ullah Niyazi and Prof. Mohi Ud Din Hajini to compile and co-edit the Kashmiri translation of Shahnama Firdousi by Wahab Parray, which was released by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages in 2015.
His poetic works also gained recognition beyond the realm of Kashmiri literature. One of his poignant poems was featured in Prof. Suvir Kaul’s highly acclaimed book, Of Graves and Gardens, adding another dimension to his literary legacy.
Taskeen’s passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Kashmiri literature and his dedication to preserving and promoting the language will continue to inspire future generations.
A forest official died in a road accident at Nadihal area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Monday evening.
An official told that the incident occurred on Bandipora-Srinagar road when an Alto car hit the official, who was riding a motorcycle, leaving him critically injured.
“He was initially taken to the district hospital in Bandipora before being referred to a hospital in Srinagar for further treatment,” the official said, adding that he succumbed to his injuries while en route to the hospital.
The deceased has been identified as Abdul Majeed Rather, son of Abdul Gafar Rather of Hajin, Bandipora.Meanwhile, the police have registered a case under the relevant sections of the law and initiated an investigation—(KNO)
A minor girl was mauled to death by stray dogs in Awantipora area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Monday, officials said.An official told that the girl was attacked and grievously injured by stray dogs outside her residence in Beighpora locality of Awantipora.
He said that the girl was shifted to a nearby hospital where from she was referred to Srinagar. “Soon after reaching Srinagar hospital, she succumbed to her injuries.”
She has been identified as Zobia Gulzar (08) daughter of Gulzar Ahmad Naikoo of Beighpora—(KNO)
Over 70 houses were gutted in a massive fire in remote area of Marwah in Kishtwar district on Monday.Official sources told GNS that fire erupted in a house and engulfed others in its vicinity, leading to gutting down over 70 houses.They said fire and emergency services are trying to reach the spot aerially as there is no motorable road so that fire tenders could reach the spot.
Reports said that senior officials have reached the spot and are assisting locals efforts to douse off flames which were raging when this report was filed.So far there are no reports as regards any loss or injury to life in the fire incident.Fire tender stations from Anantnag are also heading towards Marwah area to assist its counterparts, they said.
Moomin ul Islam, Deputy Director fire and service told GNS that he along with officials was heading to the spot to oversee measures for bringing under control the fire.(GNS)
More than 150 drivers responsible for collecting waste from homes and hotels in Srinagar went on strike Monday due to unpaid salaries.
These drivers had been requesting their wages for several months, but their frustration reached a breaking point after authorities repeatedly failed to fulfil their promises, according to a senior official from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), who wished to remain anonymous. “We’ve raised our concerns with the chairman many times, but now only protest will help,” said Malik, one of the drivers, who only shared his surname.
Bashir Ahmad, a sweeper at the SMC, found himself doing extra work today, as his supervisor instructed him to collect household waste in addition to his usual duties of cleaning roads and drains. Ahmad, along with five colleagues, covered an area of approximately four kilometres, including Habba Kadal, Nai Sarak, Barbar Shah, and Ganpatyar. Together, they collected waste from over 600 homes because the usual pickup truck drivers were on strike.
“More than 150 drivers, who collect waste from homes and hotels, are on strike due to unpaid salaries, which have been outstanding for three months,” said Abdul Rashid, the SMC area in-charge, while overseeing the sweepers and cart pullers. Rashid explained that he had instructed his team to gather waste from homes and deposit it at open dumping sites, from where larger garbage trucks would later collect it. He clarified that only the drivers of small pickup trucks, also known as ‘Chota Haathis,’ were on strike, while the larger truck drivers were still working.
While hand-cart pullers have been doing the work of the pickup trucks, they are unable to collect waste from hotels due to the sheer volume and type of rubbish. “Household waste typically consists of dustbin contents and some tea leftovers, but hotel waste includes liquor bottles, meat, and other bulky items that cannot be collected in hand carts or easily managed at open dumping sites,” explained Rashid, accompanied by two sweepers.
Despite previous pledges from the SMC to stop using open waste dumping sites, these locations remain active across the city, with waste being temporarily stored there before being collected by larger SMC trucks. “I’ve been receiving calls from major hotels in Srinagar, desperately asking for their waste to be collected,” Rashid added. Many of these hotels are located in tourist areas such as Khanyar and Munwarabad.
The pickup truck drivers are hired by private agencies, not directly by the SMC. When contacted, SMC Commissioner Dr Owais Ahmad acknowledged that he was aware of the drivers’ grievances but wasn’t informed about the strike. “I’ll look into the matter and resolve it,” he said, adding that there are no financial issues within the SMC, and the drivers’ problems may be with their agencies.
( Report Collected By Different Agencies From Srinagar)
At least ten shops and four residential houses were destroyed in a major fire incident in Dawar market in border area of Gurez late last night, officials said. An official told that fire started from a shop in Dawar market and quickly spread to other structures.
“Soon after the incident fire tender rushed to the spot to extinguish the fire. However, by the time it was brought under control, at least 10 shops and four residential houses were destroyed,” he said.
Meanwhile, Army, in a post on X said: “In a swift response to twin fire incidents at Gujran and Dawar villages in Gurez, ChinarWarriors immediately responded with its Quick Reaction Teams alongwith fire fighting equipments to doze the raging fire and take control of the adverse situation. Prompt reaction of the Army and Fire Department saved precious lives and prevented loss to property, which was applauded by the local citizens”.
Member of Parliament Sheikh Rashid also visited the fire victims and donated one-month salary as assistance.(KNO)
