MAHORE (REASI): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected areas in Reasi district before visiting Mahore to meet families grappling with the devastation. Accompanied by MLA Gulabgarh, Er. Khurshied Ahmed, and other senior officials, the Chief Minister expressed solidarity with the affected residents and reiterated his Government’s commitment to prioritizing their relief and rehabilitation.
Addressing a gathering of flood victims, Omar Abdullah spoke with empathy. “I am here to share your pain and convey my condolences for the lives and property lost. Please know that you are not alone in this difficult time,” he said, assuring sustained Government support to help residents rebuild their lives.
The Chief Minister reflected on the timing of Er. Khurshied Ahmed’s tenure, noting that his first programme as MLA was meant to be a celebration of development—laying foundations or inaugurating new projects. “But fate had other plans. Our presence here is not a favour; it is our duty and a way to honor the trust you placed in us last year,” he remarked.
Highlighting the challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir this year, Omar Abdullah noted the transition from the threat of severe drought earlier in February–April to unprecedented floods that affected regions from Kathua to Kupwara. “Earlier this year, there was no sign of rain, and we had asked our irrigation, flood control, and PHE departments to prepare for drought. But when the rains arrived, they came with such intensity that both plains and mountains were ravaged,” he said.
Acknowledging shortcomings in planning and road construction, he added that certain practices, particularly mountain cutting, may have worsened the impact, causing landslides and road collapses. “Thousands of kilometres of roads under the PWD and PMGSY networks were washed away,” he observed, stressing the importance of better infrastructure foresight.
During his interactions with affected families, the Chief Minister assured that comprehensive relief measures and long-term rehabilitation plans were underway. “We will help you overcome the immediate crisis and ensure your lives are rebuilt with dignity and resilience,” he pledged.
