Rajouri/Jammu: At least 20 families, comprising around 90 members, were evacuated on Friday after their houses developed cracks in a remote village of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.
The damage was caused by land sinking across nearly two square kilometres in hilltop Panjnara village, Kotranka sub-division, following days of heavy rain, they added.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Kotranka, Dil Mir, confirmed that the affected families were relocated to government accommodations in safer areas to prevent any loss of life.
“The houses have developed cracks and pose a threat to residents. The evacuation was carried out with assistance from the SDRF and police teams, ensuring valuables were also moved,” Mir said.
An SDRF team has been stationed in the village, while other residents have been advised to stay alert and be ready to evacuate if structural cracks appear.
Large parts of Rajouri, including Kotranka, have seen incessant rainfall for the past five days.
National Conference MLA Javid Iqbal called the situation a matter of “serious concern” and said government agencies are already on the ground to ensure public safety. He urged residents to take all necessary precautions and assured full government support in dealing with the crisis.
