Kathua, August 18, 2025 : Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Monday visited the villages of Jodh Ghati (Rajbagh) and Bagra (Janglote), severely affected by a cloudburst and landslide that claimed seven lives, including five children, and left 15 injured on Sunday.
Accompanied by NC Jammu unit president Rattan Lal Gupta, Choudhary met the affected families housed in relief camps and assured them of full government support for both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation. He directed district officials to ensure timely assistance, while reiterating the Omar Abdullah-led government’s commitment to stand by the victims.
The deputy CM also visited the Government Medical College (GMC), Kathua, where seven injured persons are undergoing treatment, and instructed doctors to provide the best possible medical care. Later, he travelled to the Military Hospital, Pathankot, to meet other injured victims.
Meanwhile, authorities have halted the recharge of the Ravi river’s main canal after structural damage caused by the flash floods at Jodh Ghati. Technical teams reported the canal to be unsafe for waterflow and confirmed that major repair and restoration work is needed before operations can resume.
“The safety of nearby communities and integrity of the canal remain our top priority,” a district spokesperson said, urging the public to cooperate until repairs are completed.
