Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Aug 28: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today said that the immediate flood threat in Kashmir has eased out but stressed that the Government needs to re-examine measures taken after the devastating 2014 floods to ensure long-term preparedness.
Speaking to reporters after reviewing arrangements at the Dargah Hazratbal shrine ahead of Eid-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), Omar warned that the Valley could again face a 2014-like situation if heavy rainfall persists.
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“If this happens after two days of rain, then God forbid, if it rains for four days from tomorrow, we will find ourselves in the same situation as 2014. At that time, we had six to seven days of rain, and floods took place after the eighth day,” he said.
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The Chief Minister said that heavy rainfall in recent days affected Jammu and Kashmir but added that the water level is now receding. “In Jammu, water comes down quickly. Here it takes a little more time, but the water has started coming down. For now, we are out of this danger,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that once the situation stabilizes, he will hold a review meeting with officials to assess flood management measures undertaken since 2014.
“I will try to find out what we did after 2014, where the money came from, where it was used, how much carrying capacity was increased in the flood channel, how much dredging of Jhelum was done, and where shortcomings remain. We cannot live in fear every year like this,” he said.
During his visit to Hazratbal, Omar directed officials to ensure smooth arrangements for devotees. Eid-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), observed on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, is marked with special prayers, rallies, and seminars highlighting the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The CM emphasized the need for proper crowd management and better public facilities during the occasion. “The most important thing is that people do not face problems. Traffic jams should be controlled, proper parking arranged, and shuttle services provided for those coming from remote areas. Cleanliness, mobile toilets, electricity supply, and medical camps should be ensured,” he said, adding that necessary guidelines had already been issued.
Expressing relief that the Valley was spared a repeat of 2014, Omar said, “God saved us. If it had rained for another day or two, we would have faced a lot of difficulties. I hope the coming days will pass properly.”
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