Srinagar, September 6, 2025 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday visited flood-ravaged areas of Anantnag and Kulgam districts to assess the damages, interact with affected families, and review restoration measures.
Special Teams for Damage Assessment
Abdullah directed the formation of special assessment teams to evaluate losses in agricultural land, horticultural crops, stranded fruit-laden trucks, and damaged infrastructure. He instructed officials to prepare comprehensive compensation proposals for submission to the Centre.
On-Ground Visit in Anantnag
Accompanied by Deputy CM Surinder Kumar Choudhary, ministers Sakina Itoo and Javed Ahmad Rana, advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, and local MLAs, the CM toured several flood-affected localities including Mehandi Kadal, Janglaat Mandi, Deva Colony, and Ashajipora Bridge.
-
Residents of Ganjiwara demanded the early completion of the flood shed pump, along with repairs to interior roads and drainage works in Eidgah Colony.
-
The Deputy Commissioner Anantnag briefed Abdullah about rescue operations, shelter homes for evacuees, sandbagging of embankments, waterlogging challenges, and immediate restoration efforts.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, Abdullah directed the administration to:
-
Prioritise restoration works.
-
Explore the viability of a flood channel.
-
Undertake dredging of rivers and streams.
-
Install dewatering pumps.
-
Strengthen river embankments for long-term protection.
Review in Kulgam
The CM later visited Kulgam, where he inspected damages to roads, bridges, and public utilities. At the Mini Secretariat Kulgam, the Deputy Commissioner presented a detailed account of early evacuations and steps taken for fast-track restoration.
Abdullah praised the timely evacuations carried out by the district administration and directed departments including PDD, Jal Shakti, and Irrigation & Flood Control to work in mission mode for the restoration of essential services.
Concern Over Illegal Mining
Expressing strong concern over illegal mining in the district, the CM ordered strict enforcement and a complete ban on the practice to safeguard fragile riverbeds and embankments.
Relief & Rehabilitation Assured
Interacting with flood-affected families, Abdullah assured them that the government stands firmly by their side. He pledged comprehensive relief, rehabilitation, and long-term flood management planning to minimise risks in the future.
