New Delhi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Wednesday stated that authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are managing the aftermath of severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall, working through the night to contain the situation.
He noted that while the water levels of the River Tawi have receded, the River Chenab remains above the danger mark, causing significant structural damage, including to the Tawi Bridge and the historic Madhupur Bridge.
Speaking to reporters in the national capital, the Minister said, “Authorities in Jammu are working round the clock to manage the effects of severe flooding. Coordination among the army, paramilitary, navy, and civil authorities remains strong. Schools and colleges are closed, and the public has been urged to limit non-essential movement. While mobile services, electricity, and water supply have been disrupted, restoration efforts are underway.”
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has described the flooding as the worst in 99 years, resulting in widespread damage and disruption.
The Minister confirmed that rescue and relief operations are being conducted with strong coordination and emphasised that authorities remain on high alert. According to the latest update from Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, provided to Minister Singh earlier in the day, the entire Jammu division—except Poonch and Rajouri districts—is still experiencing rainfall, though of reduced intensity.
Jitendra Singh also noted in a post on X that the Divisional Commissioner is in constant contact and has convened a meeting of officers from various departments. The immediate priority is restoring electricity, water supply, and mobile services, and authorities have been working continuously overnight to achieve this.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), paramilitary, army, and Air Force teams are closely coordinating with the civil administration.
Meanwhile, thirty people have died following a landslide triggered by heavy rains near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, according to Paramvir Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police, Reasi.
