By M S Nazki
Dara Sangla, Surankote | Poonch,28,2026 : Three months after the cloudburst on the night of 18 and 19 July 2026, the flood victims of Panchayat Dara Sangla in Surankote area of Poonch district are still waiting for justice, shelter and answers.
That night, torrential rainfall triggered devastating destruction. In a few hours, homes that echoed with happiness were turned into rubble, agricultural land that sustained generations was washed away, and roads that connected people to essential services became sources of hardship. According to residents, four people lost their lives, yet only one complete body has been recovered so far while only a leg believed to belong to another missing person has been found. Dozens of houses were damaged, damage worth crores was caused, dozens of bridges and flour mills were destroyed, and several families were left homeless and forced to take shelter with relatives and neighbours.
The human cost is the deepest wound. Homes that once resonated with voices are now filled with waiting. Mothers still hope for news, children still ask where their loved ones are, and no official word has ended their uncertainty.
At Sangalk is Nallah, the destruction of the bridge has cut off a lifeline. Elderly residents, patients needing urgent treatment, schoolchildren, government employees and ordinary villagers now risk their lives to cross the river daily. Residents urge construction of a permanent bridge without delay and a safe temporary crossing until then.
Discussions have emerged about funds worth crores of rupees released in the name of Panchayat Dara Sangla. If funds were sanctioned, the public has every right to know how they were used. These are not allegations against any individual or department. They are legitimate public interest questions. People need visible results on the ground, not promises alone.
Their demands are clear: conduct a comprehensive assessment of losses, clarify the status of relief and compensation, ensure transparency in assistance, arrange safe accommodation, continue efforts to trace the missing, restore roads and connectivity, expedite the permanent bridge over Sangalkis Nallah with a safe temporary passage, restore essential services and livelihoods, and publicly share details of funds sanctioned, expenditure incurred and timelines for pending works.
The people say it plainly. They are not asking for a personal favour, they are demanding their right. Their voice is not against any individual, it is in support of the victims. Give the flood victims of Dara Sangla justice. Rehabilitate them Restore their hope
