Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh informed that Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) to install 4 additional radars under Mission Mausam in J&K for more accurate weather forecasts and early warnings with 3 radars already operational.

The Minister also directed the Ministry of Earth Sciences and IMD In particular to come out with dedicated district wise forecasts for the weather affected regions in North India such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab.

The Minister directed Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences Dr. M. Ravichandran and DG, IMD Dr. M. Mohapatra was also present in the meeting to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of weather patterns and provide timely forecasts to minimize losses through early warning and better preparedness.

Dr Jitendra Singh gave these instructions today while convening a high-level review meeting with the Div. commissioner of Jammu and DC’s of Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Kathua and Udhampur districts of Jammu & Kashmir via video conference to take stock of the relief and rehabilitation measures being undertaken in the wake of unprecedented rainfall, cloudbursts and flash floods in the region.

Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the relentless efforts of the district administrations, which, despite challenging weather conditions, have worked round-the-clock to save lives and ensure timely supply of rations, medicines and shelter to the affected families.

The Minister, who is also the Lok Sabha MP from Udhampur constituency, emphasized that special focus has been laid on ensuring potable drinking water through supply of water filters and essential medical kits to prevent any outbreak of water-borne diseases. He also informed that two additional consignments of ration kits, and state of art water filters would made available by tomorrow, food packets and essential medicines are being dispatched from his own MP funds, in addition to the Government relief measures, so that no family feels unattended in this hour of crisis.

Dr. Jitendra Singh conveyed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the situation and has issued clear directions to expedite relief measures. He further informed that Home Minister Amit Shah has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee to assess the damages and ensure coordinated assistance, which will also visit Kathua today.

Doda

Dr. Jitendra Singh spoke to Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh, regarding the flash floods in Rout Marmat and damages to the Doda-Kishtwar road. He appreciated the timely intervention of the district administration in Bhaderwah, where large-scale inundation of the town was prevented by breaking choked culverts at Gatha and diverting water channels using heavy machinery during peak floods. This action, he said, is a testimony to the dedication of the field officers in protecting public lives and properties.

Udhampur

According to DC Udhampur, Ms. Saloni Rai, 38 relief camps have been set up accommodating over 2,000 people. Around 380 roads were damaged, of which 190 have been restored. Connectivity has been re-established in most parts except some pockets of Dudu Basantgarh and Moungri. Daily monitoring of food, essential supplies and communication networks is underway, and full restoration will be expedited as weather conditions improve.

Kathua

Deputy Commissioner Shri Rajesh Sharma reported that 26 relief camps sheltering 1,900 people have been set up. Of the 285 roads damaged, 179 have been restored. However, connectivity to remote villages like Bagra, Patyari, Nagali, Leundi, Jannu, Lohai Malhar and others remains affected. Out of 186 damaged water supply schemes, 79 have been restored, while efforts are on to revive the rest. Essential commodities are being supplied to all affected areas.

Ramban

Deputy Commissioner Alyas Khan informed that a cloudburst at Drubla Village, Rajgarh Tehsil on 29th August caused landslides and flash floods, resulting in the tragic death of 4 persons, with 1 woman still missing and another person severely injured. Around 283 houses were damaged and nearly 950 people evacuated to safer places. Of 182 roads affected, 55 were restored initially, but subsequent rainfall damaged 84 more roads, of which 30 have been restored. The administration continues round-the-clock restoration work.

Kishtwar

Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma briefed that prompt action by the administration saved the lives of five persons trapped in a landslide at the Rattle Power Project in Dhrabshala area. They were rescued alive, though injured, and are receiving necessary medical care and assistance. Dr. Singh commended the swift response of the district authorities in preventing what could have been a fatal incident.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, assured that no effort will be spared to provide relief and rehabilitation to the affected people of all five districts. He said that the Centre and State are working hand in hand, and local administrations deserve appreciation for their courage and commitment in the face of adversity.

Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the efforts of civil society and local bikers, who often act as first responders in times of need, calling them heroes. He highlighted this as an example of a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach.

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NKR/PSM