Jammu: A delegation from the BJP’s Jammu and Kashmir unit met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday, urging that the recent calamity in Jammu be declared a national disaster and a comprehensive relief package be announced for immediate aid and long-term recovery.
The 25-member delegation, led by J-K BJP chief Sat Sharma and Assembly Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, submitted a detailed memorandum to Shah at Raj Bhawan in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, a party spokesperson said.
BJP leaders briefed Shah on the widespread devastation caused by continuous rains, cloudbursts, and flash floods in the Jammu region, which has resulted in loss of lives and extensive damage to homes, agriculture, businesses, and public infrastructure. The memorandum noted that the scale of destruction exceeds the financial capacity of the Jammu and Kashmir government and falls outside the scope of SDRF norms.
The delegation requested that the calamity be formally recognized as a national disaster and called for a special relief and rehabilitation package to facilitate immediate assistance and long-term recovery.
Highlighting the destruction, the BJP pointed out severe disruptions to roads, bridges, and essential services such as water supply, electricity, and communications, along with the devastation of thousands of kanals of agricultural land. They also sought support for families whose homes and belongings were damaged, including repair grants for partially affected dwellings.
The memorandum stressed the need for revival assistance for businesses, shops, and small-scale industries affected by the floods. It also emphasized compensation for educational institutions—both government and private—damaged in urban and rural areas, to help restore normal functioning.
The BJP urged prompt restoration and upgrading of public infrastructure, particularly in water supply, power, sewerage, and drainage systems, alongside urgent desilting of drains and nallahs to mitigate health and sanitation risks.
For long-term measures, the delegation proposed dredging major rivers including the Chenab, Jammu Tawi, and Balol Nallah, along with their tributaries in Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Samba, and Kathua. They noted that a comprehensive plan for the Chenab has already been submitted to the Government of India and awaits early approval.
Shah heard the proposals and assured the delegation of all possible support.
