Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Environment, Forest, Ecology and Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana, has directed the administration to formulate a comprehensive long-term disaster mitigation plan for the rain-ravaged Poonch district, where 18 people have lost their lives in recent rain-related incidents.
Identification of Vulnerable Zones
Reviewing the ground situation, Rana, who also holds the portfolios of Tribal Affairs and Jal Shakti, instructed officers to map all landslide and flashflood-prone locations. He emphasized the need for permanent protective measures to safeguard lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
The minister stressed that sustainable mitigation strategies should be prioritized to reduce the impact of future natural disasters and enhance preparedness in vulnerable regions.
Restoration and Relief Operations
Rana has been camping in his home district for several days to oversee rescue, relief, and restoration efforts. He directed concerned departments to restore damaged roads, drinking water schemes, power infrastructure, and other essential public utilities on a war footing to ease hardships faced by the affected population.
During his ongoing tour, the minister visited some of the worst-hit villages and remote habitations, interacting with affected families and inspecting damage to homes, roads, water supply schemes, irrigation facilities, and agricultural land, according to an official spokesman.
Government Assurance
Expressing solidarity with the affected families, the minister assured them of continued government support. “The government stands firmly with every family affected by this tragedy. We will remain with you through this difficult time and ensure timely support, including immediate relief, rehabilitation assistance and compensation, to help you rebuild your lives,” Rana said.
The official spokesman said the minister is also reviewing the pace of relief and rehabilitation works being carried out by the district administration and line departments.
People-Centric Approach
While taking stock of the restoration of essential services, Rana emphasized that the relief process must remain people-centric and responsive. He directed officers to ensure that genuine cases of loss are assessed promptly and that eligible families receive relief and compensation without unnecessary delay.
The government will continue to closely monitor the situation until normalcy is fully restored, the minister added.
