Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed today that the Jammu and Kashmir government will allocate five marlas of land to all families affected by the recent floods, specifically targeting those who have become homeless and landless due to the devastating natural calamities. The Chief Minister made this proclamation during an interaction with residents in Duggain, Billawar, where many have seen their homes and livelihoods destroyed by the unforeseen floods.
Omar Abdullah’s visit included an aerial survey of the flood-affected regions in the district, accompanied by local MLA Dr. Rameshwar Singh. He expressed his commitment to ensuring relief and rehabilitation for those impacted. “The year 2025 has brought immense devastation to Jammu and Kashmir—from a dry spell in March and April to the incessant rains and landslides in August and September,” Abdullah reported. “From Kathua to Kupwara, the damage has been unprecedented.”
The Chief Minister detailed the extensive damage inflicted by torrential rains, noting that over 350 bridges sustained damage, alongside about 2,000 kilometers of road networks. Thousands of hectares of agricultural land suffered destruction, standing crops have been washed away, and both governmental and private properties have incurred significant losses. “Given the enormity of restoration challenges, Jammu and Kashmir is seeking a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package from the Central Government,” he added.
During his assessment, CM Abdullah noted the importance of understanding real-life challenges in remote areas. His inspection included an aerial survey of severe damages in Hiranagar and Lakhanpur, key entry points to Jammu and Kashmir.
Later, Abdullah convened a crucial meeting with the district administration, including Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma and senior civil and police officials. He instructed the DC to conduct thorough tours of all affected locales and submit substantive ground reports at the earliest opportunity.
Dr. Rameshwar Singh, MLA Bani, highlighted that the Bani region, too, experienced severe damages from landslides triggered by the unrelenting rains. He shared the heartbreaking news that in villages such as Moar, Najote, and Kanthal-Majra, nearly 100 families have lost all their land and property.
Singh emphasized the urgent need for allotting five marlas of land to such affected families. He also raised other pressing issues affecting the local populace, including damage to the Jalana Bridge, delays in the tender work for High School Lohai, the urgent upgrade of High School Sadrota, and the request for amnesty on KCC loans and electricity bills for the affected families.
In response, the Chief Minister assured attendees that the government would examine these demands seriously and work to provide all possible support to the impacted families, claiming, “The restoration efforts will be prioritized.”
