In Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today carried out an extensive tour of Ramban and Udhampur districts to assess the widespread devastation caused by recent cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides and mudslides, which have severely disrupted life and damaged the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44).
Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that at Maroge in Ramban, the Chief Minister inspected the severely damaged stretch of NH-44 and directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), BEACON and other executing agencies to urgently restore this vital road link. He emphasized that the immediate priority must be to ensure smooth movement of traffic and uninterrupted supply of essentials to the Kashmir Valley.
Reviewing relief and rehabilitation efforts in Rajgarh, which was hit by a devastating cloudburst, the CM assured the affected families that adequate assistance will be provided under the State Disaster Relief Fund. During his visit, Omar also took stock of the availability of essential commodities, healthcare facilities, and critical services across the district. He instructed the administration to maintain availability of food supplies, clean drinking water, electricity, and medical care.
Later, the CM visited the damaged portions of NH-44 at Bali Nallah and Thard in Udhampur district. He inspected the ongoing restoration works and instructed executing agencies to deploy additional men and machinery for speedy clearance of debris and repair of the highway. He emphasized that at least one track of the highway must be opened urgently to facilitate the transportation of essential supplies to Kashmir and ease the hardships of the people.
The CM also interaction with the local residents at Bali Nallah and Thard, listened to their grievances and assured them of full government support.