Vows to restore normalcy
MENDHAR: In the aftermath of devastating flash floods in Mendhar, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest Ecology, Environment, and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana conducted a comprehensive review of relief, restoration, and rehabilitation measures. Accompanied by senior district officials and departmental heads, Rana inspected flood-affected areas, assessed damages, and directed immediate action to expedite recovery efforts.
During the meeting held at Mendhar, officials briefed the Minister on the extent of damage to public infrastructure, ongoing relief operations, and damage assessment status. Rana emphasized the urgency of repairing breaches in flood protection works, particularly along vulnerable points like Mankote Nallah. He instructed the Irrigation and Flood Control Department to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both immediate and long-term flood mitigation measures, aiming to reinforce infrastructure and prevent future calamities.
Addressing the affected residents, Rana assured that the government would scrutinize all genuine relief and compensation claims swiftly, urging villagers to cooperate fully with the assessment process. “We are committed to extending all possible assistance,” he stated, emphasizing that relief reaches every affected household without delay.
The Minister also directed district authorities to ensure the quick restoration of essential services and expedite damage assessments. He urged close inter-departmental coordination to facilitate early normalization of life in the flood-hit areas.
In his visit to flood-affected zones including Chajjla, Mankote, Dabraj, Balnoi, Bhatidhar, and Salwah, Rana interacted directly with residents, listening to their losses and concerns. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to stand with the communities, promising adequate resources for rehabilitation and infrastructure rebuilding.
Highlighting the need for long-term disaster preparedness, Rana stressed the importance of strengthening flood protection infrastructure, improving drainage, scientific slope stabilization, and adopting sustainable mitigation strategies. “The devastation has underscored the necessity of proactive planning to minimize future risks,” he said.
Concluding his visit, Rana assured the affected families of ongoing government support while emphasizing that the region’s resilience depends on both immediate relief and strategic long-term measures. “The government will not rest until life is fully restored and our vulnerable regions are better prepared for future natural calamities,” he affirmed.
The government remains committed to swift relief, comprehensive recovery, and building a more resilient Jammu and Kashmir.