CM Omar Abdullah Reviews Flood-Hit Jammu, Orders Relief, Restoration of Services and Assures Comprehensive Support
In the wake of heavy monsoon rains and floods across Jammu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today conducted an extensive tour of flood-affected areas to assess damages and supervise immediate relief measures.
Accompanied by Minister Satish Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas, and other senior officers, the Chief Minister visited several critical locations including the Fourth Tawi Bridge (Bhagwati Nagar), Science College (Old University Campus), Hari Singh Park, and flood-hit Gujjar Nagar.
Focus on Damaged Infrastructure
Omar Abdullah highlighted the urgent need for technical evaluation of the Fourth Tawi Bridge, recalling its vulnerability during the 2014 floods. He stressed preventive measures to avert similar risks in the future.
Rehabilitation and Relief
On the issue of damaged houses, the Chief Minister directed that rehabilitation must be holistic and inclusive, ensuring affected families receive adequate support. He urged officials to prioritize urgent challenges and expedite on-ground solutions.
Coordination with Centre
The Chief Minister confirmed that he had briefed the Prime Minister on the flood situation. He said the PM assured full support from the Government of India and promised continued assistance for flood-affected families.
Pilgrim Safety Concerns
Expressing grief over the Katra landslide tragedy that claimed several pilgrim lives, Omar Abdullah said preventive measures should have stopped devotees from proceeding despite weather warnings. He extended condolences to the bereaved families.
Restoration of Services
Omar Abdullah directed BSNL, Jio, and Airtel to immediately restore telecom and internet services, emphasizing their critical role in emergencies. He also ordered priority restoration of traffic on Srinagar-Jammu and Jammu-Pathankot highways, as well as electricity, water supply, and road access across affected areas.
Relief Package Assured
The Chief Minister announced that a comprehensive relief package for Jammu and Kashmir will be formulated in the coming days. He also interacted with residents in flood-hit localities, assured them of government support, and directed officials to ensure temporary shelters, food supply, sanitation, and essential services are provided without delay.
