Diplomat Correspondent
Ramban, (DD)Union Minister of State (MoS) Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday visited Ramban district to assess the damage caused by recent flash floods and landslides that wreaked havoc across several villages in the region. As part of his visit, the Minister conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas before landing at the Chandrakot helipad, where he was received by senior officials from the district administration and disaster management teams.
The visit comes in the wake of continuous rainfall over the past week that triggered flash floods, landslides, and road blockages, leaving several families displaced and causing substantial damage to infrastructure including roads, bridges, homes, and farmlands.
Dr Singh reviewed ongoing relief and rehabilitation operations being carried out by the district administration in coordination with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other concerned departments. He also interacted with officials overseeing the rescue missions and was briefed on the challenges posed by weather conditions and terrain.
Speaking to the media, the Minister assured that the central government stands firmly with the people of Ramban in this hour of distress. “We are committed to extending all possible assistance for both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the situation and has directed us to ensure timely and adequate support to the affected families,” he said.
Ramban district, situated along the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), is prone to frequent landslides and flash floods, especially during the monsoon and pre-monsoon periods. The recent spate of rain led to the swelling of local nallahs and rivers, triggering landslides that blocked key roadways and damaged property. Villages in areas like Batote, Ukhral, and Gool have reported significant losses.
The administration has set up temporary shelters for displaced families and is working on restoring road connectivity to ensure the supply of essential commodities. Medical teams and relief camps have been mobilized, while efforts are underway to assess crop and livestock damage for compensation purposes.
Dr Singh’s visit underscores the government’s focus on ensuring disaster resilience and strengthening infrastructure in vulnerable regions like Ramban.(DD)
