Associated News Bureau

Javed Rana Continues Pir Panjal Flood Relief Tour, Assures Swift Rehabilitation for Affected Families

Srinagar, July 25 (ANB): Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, on Saturday continued his extensive tour of the flood- and landslide-affected areas of the Pir Panjal region, visiting Dhara Sangla in Surankote to assess the situation and reassure affected families of the government's full support. The Minister met residents who suffered losses in the recent flash floods and landslides, offering condolences to families who lost their loved ones and assuring them that the Omar Abdullah-led Government stands firmly with every affected household during this difficult period. "The Government stands firmly with every family affected by this tragedy. We will continue to support you through relief, rehabilitation and compensation to help rebuild your lives," Rana said while interacting with the victims. Accompanied by Surankote MLA Choudhary Mohammad Akram and senior officers from various departments, the Minister reviewed the ongoing relief, restoration and rehabilitation measures in the affected areas. As part of his continuing outreach across the Pir Panjal region, Rana has been visiting some of the worst-hit villages and remote habitations to assess damage to residential houses, roads, drinking water schemes, irrigation infrastructure and agricultural land. He also reviewed the progress of relief operations being carried out by the district administration and line departments. Emphasising a people-centric approach to relief efforts, the Minister directed officials to ensure prompt assessment of genuine losses and timely disbursement of relief and compensation to all eligible beneficiaries without unnecessary delays. Rana also stressed the need for long-term disaster mitigation measures in vulnerable areas. He instructed the concerned departments to identify landslide- and flash flood-prone locations and prepare comprehensive plans for permanent protective infrastructure to safeguard lives, property and public assets. Reiterating the government's commitment to restoring normalcy at the earliest, the Minister directed officials to undertake restoration of damaged roads, drinking water supply schemes, power infrastructure and other essential public utilities on a war footing to minimise hardships faced by the affected population.