Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Sept 17: To have a first-hand assessment of the situation caused by incessant rains, landslides and flashfloods, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today visited Dera Baba (Reasi) and Panjar areas of Pancheri in Udhampur today
Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand.
Mr Azad conducted aerial survey of the Chenab river and drove to flood affected Dera Baba, SeariTanda, Karwa and the adjoining areas of Kanjali along the bank of Chenab river and later conducted aerial survey of Pancheri and Panjar hilly areas of Udhampur district.
Pertinently, four habitations were washed out due to rampaging flash floods and landslide in Dera area of Reasi district causing loss of precious human lives, damage to private properties like houses, livestock, and public infrastructure like roads, electricity etc.
Similarly, Saddal village in Panjar area of Pancheri tehsil in Udhampur district has been wiped out from the map, causing scores of deaths with many bodies still buried under the debris.
Laying emphasis on immediate rehabilitation of flood hit victims, Mr Azad called upon the respective Deputy Commissioners to identify land at safer places away from river beds, flood channels and landslide prone areas in order to help the affected families rebuild their lives.
While reviewing the relief measures, Leader of Opposition, directed the administration to show promptness in rendering adequate relief to affected people. He called for immediate preparation of list of people affected by damages besides correct assessment of damage to crops, livestock and property.
He also directed to distribute relief material among those who have lost their homes on priority basis and identify Government buildings where they can be rehabilitated in the short term.
The Deputy Commissioners informed that a committee of senior district officers has been constituted and assured that there will be absolute transparency in assessment of damages and relief distribution.
Appreciating the role of State Government, District Administrations, NGOs and workers of Congress Party in extending helping hand to the affected people at this critical juncture, Azad assured full support of the State Government to the victims of floods and landslides in terms of providing relief and temporary shelters to them, in addition to rebuilding of houses at new locations. “Entire nation and the State are standing behind you in this catastrophic situation and we are also here to share your grief and sorrows,” Azad added.
The leaders also addressed a public meeting at Krishi Vigan Kendra, Seri and assured full compensation to all those who have been affected by flood. The district administration was asked to immediately start distribution of the free ration.
Later, Mr Azad also joined funeral of former Speaker and Minister Late Abdul Ghani Goni in Jammu.
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