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Ramban (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 21 (ANI): In response to the cloudburst and intense rainfall that struck the Ramban district on Monday, the Indian Army launched swift and coordinated relief and restoration operations to assist affected civilians and restore connectivity along the National Highway 44 (NH44), according to a press statement.
Upon assessment of the ground situation, the Army initiated immediate action in coordination with civil administration officials, including the District Commissioner, Senior Superintendent of Police, and the Superintendent of Traffic. While no emergency requisition has been made, civil authorities have assured they will seek Army assistance should the need arise.
Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) from Banihal, Karachial, Digdaul, Maitra, and Chanderkote were rapidly mobilised to provide relief to stranded travellers. Army personnel extended support by distributing tea and hot meals, offering temporary shelter, and providing basic medical aid to those in need.
Eight Army columns (strength 1/1/18 each) are currently on standby at key locations to assist further if required. Meanwhile, JCBs and heavy equipment from civilian construction firms, including KRCL, CPPL, and DMR, have begun clearing operations along the obstructed highway.
As per initial assessments, road clearance and restoration may take up to 48 hours.
Despite the challenges, the people’s resilient spirit remains unwavering. A stranded civilian, when asked about the situation, responded confidently, “Koi dikkat nahi hai… Army hai na… Sab kuchh theek ho jaayega.” (“There’s no problem… The Army is here… Everything will be fine.”)
As per the statement, the Indian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to stand by the citizens of Jammu & Kashmir in times of crisis, ensuring safety, support, and timely assistance.
In the Ramban region, flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains in the early hours of Sunday have caused widespread devastation. At least three people, including two children, lost their lives in Bagahana village after two houses collapsed due to a landslide.
Meanwhile, in view of the continuing severe weather conditions and forecasts, classwork in all schools across the Kashmir Valley will remain suspended on Monday, April 21, said Jammu and Kashmir’s (J-K) Education Minister Sakina Itoo.
This decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all students across the Valley. (ANI)
Centre will provide financial help to those affected by Ramban landslides: J-K LoP Sunil Sharma
Financial help
The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Monday said a BJP team has visited Ramban to assess the situation following a devastating landslide and assured that the Centre is committed to helping those affected by the disaster.
The landslide has resulted in the tragic loss of three lives.
“A team of the BJP has arrived at Ramban to make an assessment report of what has happened on the ground. We will prepare a comprehensive report and, being in opposition, we will do whatever is possible to provide help from the state government and provide details to the central government,” Sharma told reporters.
“BJP is very serious about this disaster. We assure that the central government will provide financial help to the people affected by the landslides,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday addressed the ongoing situation in Ramban following a devastating landslide, confirming that the conditions are dire in some areas, particularly near the National Highway.
“The condition is very bad in some areas, especially near the National Highway. The Dy CM was sent, and the MLAs of Ramban and Banihal are present there. Restoration of the Highway is underway. We are also trying to restore the affected residential areas,” Abdullah said.
CM Abdullah assured that authorities are actively working to clear the debris and restore normalcy as soon as possible.
“We spoke to the centre; NDRF is also being sent. PM Relief Funds and other relief funds would also be tapped so that people can be compensated for their loss,” he added.
In the Ramban region, flash floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains in the early hours of Sunday have caused widespread devastation. At least three people, including two children, lost their lives in Bagahana village after two houses collapsed due to a landslide. (ANI)
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