CM Omar Reviews Flood Situation, Directs Swift Restoration of Roads, Power, Relief Measures

Srinagar, Jul 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday chaired another high-level review meeting through video conference from New Delhi to assess the situation arising out of heavy rains across the Union Territory and review the progress of restoration works, relief measures and overall preparedness. During the meeting, officials briefed the Chief Minister on the restoration of essential services, the status of damaged roads and the ongoing relief operations in the rain-affected districts. The meeting was informed that electricity supply in the flood-hit Poonch district is expected to be restored by Monday evening, while efforts are underway to restore road connectivity at the earliest in affected areas. The Chief Minister directed the administration to expedite the restoration of roads, power supply and other essential services to minimise inconvenience to the public. He instructed officials to maintain constant vigil over vulnerable habitations and ensure the safety of residents living in flood- and landslide-prone areas. He also directed strict regulation of traffic movement in areas susceptible to landslides and shooting stones to prevent accidents. Emphasising the need for uninterrupted relief measures, Omar Abdullah asked the administration to ensure adequate availability of food grains, drinking water, medicines and other essential commodities in affected areas. He also directed officials to distribute rations in advance wherever necessary to avoid shortages in case of road blockages caused by inclement weather. Expressing concern over waterlogging witnessed in several parts of Srinagar city following rainfall, the Chief Minister instructed the authorities to take proactive steps to prevent urban flooding. He directed that men and machinery be pre-positioned at vulnerable locations across the city to ensure quick dewatering, effective drainage and prompt response to any waterlogging incidents. The Chief Minister also asked officials to remain on high alert and closely monitor the weather situation while ensuring coordinated efforts among all concerned departments to provide timely relief and restore normalcy in the affected areas. He stressed that public safety should remain the administration's top priority and directed officers to respond swiftly to any emergency arising due to adverse weather conditions.