Jammu, Thursday, September 4: Raman Bhalla, Working President Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) and former Cabinet Minister, today undertook an extensive visit to the flood-affected areas of Jammu, where he interacted with residents and assessed the widespread damage caused by the recent floods. Expressing deep concern over the slow pace of relief and rehabilitation efforts, Bhalla issued a strong appeal to the administration to act swiftly and responsibly in addressing the crisis.

Bhalla was accompanied by Amrit Bali, Pawan Bhagat, Gurcharan Singh Happy, and Bitta during his visit to Bhour Kothey, Bhour Camp, and adjoining areas of the Floriculture Garden, including the cremation ground at Bhour Camp, where he directly observed the hardships faced by residents.

During his tour, Bhalla observed that even after more than ten days since the floods, malba (mud and debris) continues to choke the internal lanes and homes of several localities. “The situation remains grim. Residents are struggling to resume normal life as the debris has not been cleared. There is a glaring shortage of machinery and manpower. Authorities must immediately mobilize resources, even if it means diverting heavy machinery from the National Highway and seeking assistance from allied organizations,” Bhalla stated.

He further noted that the rising water levels in nallahs posed a continuing risk, demanding urgent preventive measures. Bhalla also highlighted the plight of families unable to perform last rites in their local cremation grounds as many have been rendered unusable due to flooding. “It is heartbreaking that people are being forced to move to distant villages for cremation. This reflects the government’s lack of preparedness in ensuring basic dignity for the affected families,” he said.

The Congress leader demanded immediate restoration of road connectivity, deployment of medical teams to low-lying flood-hit areas, and urgent sanitation drives. “Sanitation, hygiene, and public health are at severe risk. Without timely medical assistance, there is a looming threat of waterborne diseases,” he cautioned.

Bhalla also called for direct distribution of packed food, clothing, and other essentials. “These are not luxuries but basic necessities that people are being deprived of. The government must ensure that no family goes hungry or without support in such trying times,” he said.

Targeting the BJP-led government, Bhalla ridiculed Jammu’s “smart city” claims. “If this is a smart city, then what is a failed one? The floods have exposed hollow claims. Infrastructure has collapsed under pressure, leaving citizens to suffer,” he remarked.

Demanding urgent financial aid, Bhalla pressed for compensation not only to affected families but also to farmers whose agricultural lands have been devastated. “Agriculture is the backbone of our region. Farmers are among the worst sufferers in this tragedy and deserve fair and timely compensation,” he asserted.

Referring to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent visit, Bhalla expressed disappointment that the flood-hit areas have not been declared a “national disaster zone.” He questioned the silence of the administration on this crucial matter, stressing that such recognition would pave the way for larger relief packages and institutional support.

“The government must rise above optics and deliver on its responsibilities. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are in pain. They need immediate relief, long-term rehabilitation, and above all, a government that is accountable to them,” Bhalla concluded.

JAMMU, Sep 04: Deputy Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir Surinder Choudhary assigned additional charge of Chief Engineer Pir Panjal zone to Ashpk Kumar Khokhar.

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Jammu, Sep 4: The administration has intensified restoration work and debris clearance in low-lying areas of Jammu city following flooding in the Tawi river, and has considerably restored water and power supply in the affected areas.

Officials said that they have restored 70 per cent of water supply and 80 per cent of the power supply.

Record-breaking rainfall triggered panic as the river Tawi, popularly known as Surya Putri, roared with flood fury on August 26, inundating hundreds of homes and hectares of farmland, washing away structures and livestock, and displacing thousands in Jammu city, particularly Gujjar Nagar and Peerkho.

“Cleanliness operations are being undertaken at a fast pace to remove muck and debris from localities and ensure they are fully cleared of deposits left by the floodwaters of the Tawi. The administration is fully working on this issue,” Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar said.

Kumar, flanked by Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Minhas and JMC Commissioner Devansh Yadav, monitored the operations carried out by labourers and machines after weather conditions improved on Thursday.

“A large number of labourers and six JCBs are engaged to ensure the areas are cleaned as soon as possible. Officials are monitoring the process,” he said.

On the morning of August 26, the calm river turned into a raging torrent, submerging low-lying areas, particularly riverbank colonies of Peerkho, Gujjar Nagar, Gurkha Nagar, Rajiv Nagar and others. Streets became waterways, prompting large-scale rescue operations amid panic across the ‘city of temples.’

Peerkho, among the worst-hit areas, was left strewn with half-buried vehicles, debris, boulders and uprooted trees. More than 300 people, including children clinging to their mothers and the elderly too frail to walk, were pulled out in desperate rescue efforts. But fear still lingered like a shadow.

Kumar said the administration is working in a proactive manner. “The Deputy Commissioner, Municipal Commissioner, and MD JPDCL — all are on the ground, working fast to restore essentials. Muck and debris clearance is being carried out in the area,” he said.

The divisional commissioner further said water and power facilities are being fully restored.

“About 70 per cent of the water supply has been restored, and the remaining is being done at a fast pace. Nearly 80 per cent of the power supply has been restored in the area. Work is being carried out on a war footing,” he said.

As far as relief is concerned, he said the assessment is being done by the deputy commissioner.

“Once that is completed, ex gratia will be given to the affected families. All possible support will be provided by the government, as it stands with people in this tough time,” he added.

He further said that full relief will be given to all the flood-affected victims, and all facilities and essential supplies will be restored very soon.

On water supply restoration, the deputy commissioner has procured private water tankers to ensure supply to all affected areas.

“It will take some time, but we are committed to fully restoring the facility,” Kumar added. (Agencies)

Jammu, September 04: A household accident was narrowly averted today in Ekta Vihar, Gangyal, Jammu, after a Wonder Chef induction cooker suddenly blasted while in use.

The incident occurred when utensils used for sterilizing a baby’s items were placed on the induction. The sudden blast shook the kitchen area, raising panic in the locality.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the housemaid and family members were in the lobby at the time of the incident. “If anyone had been inside the kitchen, the situation could have turned into a major tragedy,” a family member remarked.

Suman Preet, from the affected family, said he will take up the matter with the company. He also indicated that if the company fails to take responsibility, legal action may be initiated.

The incident has raised concerns over the safety standards of household appliances and calls for strict accountability from manufacturing companies.

Khour, Jammu:As devastating floods wreak havoc in the region, SHO Neeraj Choudhary, in charge of Khour Police Station, has emerged as a symbol of bravery and dedication. Despite the dangerous conditions, he is leading critical rescue operations to save stranded residents, showing exceptional courage on the ground.

The areas under the jurisdiction of Khour Police Station have been severely impacted by rising water levels. Roads have submerged, homes have been flooded, and normal life has come to a standstill. But amid this crisis, SHO Neeraj Choudhary and his team have been actively engaged in helping people reach safety.

Eyewitnesses report that SHO Choudhary is personally involved in the rescue operations—navigating floodwaters, assisting with evacuations, and ensuring that the most vulnerable, including women, children, and the elderly, are safely relocated.

A local resident stated, “SHO sahab didn’t think twice. He came in with his team and got us out safely. In these tough times, he has truly been a savior.”

Videos and images of SHO Choudhary’s efforts have gone viral on social media, earning him praise from across the region. His fearless leadership and quick action have been lauded not just by citizens but also by fellow officers and officials.

In an era where public faith in institutions can often waver during crises, officers like SHO Neeraj Choudhary stand as reminders that the police force is not just about enforcing the law—it’s about serving the people with integrity, courage, and heart.