Jammu, September 4, 2025 : The Jammu administration has launched an intensive restoration drive in flood-hit areas of the city, focusing on debris clearance, sanitation, and restoration of essential services after the River Tawi wreaked havoc on August 26.
Officials said nearly 70 per cent of water supply and 80 per cent of electricity have already been restored in affected zones, while efforts are continuing on a war footing to bring normalcy back.
Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Minhas and JMC Commissioner Devansh Yadav, personally monitored operations on Thursday as weather conditions improved. “Cleanliness operations are being carried out at a fast pace. Large numbers of labourers supported by six JCB machines are working round the clock to clear muck, debris and boulders from colonies inundated by the floodwaters,” Kumar said.
The deluge, triggered by record-breaking rainfall, turned the Tawi—revered as Surya Putri—into a raging torrent, submerging colonies such as Gujjar Nagar, Peerkho, Rajiv Nagar and Gurkha Nagar. Entire streets were converted into waterways, forcing large-scale rescue operations. Over 300 residents, including children, elderly and ailing persons, were evacuated in dramatic night-long missions.
Peerkho, one of the worst-affected areas, still bears signs of devastation with vehicles half-buried in slush, uprooted trees, collapsed boundary walls and scattered debris. Fear continues to haunt residents despite receding waters.
The Divisional Commissioner assured that full restoration of power and water supply is a top priority, with private water tankers already pressed into service to bridge the gap. “The remaining supply will be restored at the earliest. Relief distribution is also being assessed and ex gratia compensation will be provided to all affected families,” he said.
The administration has pledged complete support to flood victims. “The government stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the people in this difficult time. All possible assistance will be extended until normalcy returns,” Kumar added.
