Bhaderwah/Jammu: Flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district have left hundreds of Gujjar families cut off from markets, forcing them to risk their lives daily for survival. The floods on August 26 swept away four bridges that connected the high-altitude grasslands of Jaie Valley with nearby towns.
Around 350 tribal families, who spend the summer months with their cattle in the valley at an altitude of 7,850 meters and 35 km from Bhaderwah, rely on selling milk and dairy products. With all bridges washed away along a 20-km stretch, they are left with no option but to wade through fast-flowing streams twice a day to reach the market.
“There is no bridge left after last month’s rains, and we are forced to cross the river carrying our produce,” said Abdul Kareen Deedar, a nomad. “We hold hands and cross in groups. It’s dangerous, but we have to feed our families.”
Community leader Mohd Hussain Chechi has urged the government to expedite the reconstruction of the bridges.
Bhaderwah Divisional Forest Officer Devinder Kumar confirmed the issue, saying reports have been submitted to both the forest department and the district administration. “Once we get approval, footbridges will be built on a priority basis,” he assured.
