Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday telephoned Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and assured full central assistance for the recent flashfloods that caused extensive damage in Doda, Kishtwar, and Kathua districts.
Home Minister reaches out to CM
Speaking to the media, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said, “I talked to the Home Minister this morning regarding the difficulties we faced in some areas. Chenab region and Kathua faced problems due to rains. I informed the Home Minister about the details when he called me up. He has assured that the central government will assist in case any help is needed.”
The flashfloods, triggered by heavy rainfall, hit the mountainous regions of Doda, Kishtwar, and Kathua. In Thathri area of Doda, a flashflood on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday caused damage to homes and shops. Locals reported that properties worth lakhs were destroyed when water from a local nullah entered houses.
Debris clearance and damage assessment
District administration officials said heavy machinery has been deployed at Thathri to remove boulders and muck. “Men and machinery from the administration are working throughout the day to clear roads and residential areas as there was damage to the properties. An assessment of the damage is also underway after which a report will be prepared,” officials said.
National Highway-244, which connects Doda and Kishtwar with other parts of the Union Territory, was blocked by heavy boulders and muck brought by the flooding.
Earlier flooding in Kishtwar
Before the Doda flashflood, a similar incident occurred in Kishtwar where water and debris entered the 540 MW Kwar hydroelectric power project, damaging infrastructure. Several heavy motor vehicles and machinery were buried under debris, causing damage worth lakhs.
Locals in Thathri urged the administration to remove debris from in front of their homes. They also reported no supply of water and electricity since the flashflood hit the area. The administration is working to restore essential services.
