Jammu: The administration has stepped up restoration and debris-clearing operations in Jammu city’s low-lying areas following flooding in the Tawi river, making significant progress in restoring water and power supplies.
Officials reported that about 70% of the water supply and 80% of the power supply have already been restored.
Record-breaking rainfall on August 26 caused the Tawi river, locally known as Surya Putri, to swell and flood, submerging hundreds of homes and farmlands, damaging structures and livestock, and displacing thousands, particularly in areas such as Gujjar Nagar and Peerkho.
“Clean-up operations are underway at a fast pace to remove muck and debris left by the floodwaters, ensuring that localities are fully cleared,” said Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar.
Kumar, accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Minhas and Jammu Municipal Corporation Commissioner Devansh Yadav, oversaw the operations conducted by labourers and machinery after the weather improved on Thursday.
“A large workforce along with six JCBs is engaged to ensure speedy clearance, while officials closely monitor the process,” he added.
On the morning of August 26, the normally calm Tawi turned into a raging torrent, inundating low-lying colonies along its banks, including Peerkho, Gujjar Nagar, Gurkha Nagar, and Rajiv Nagar. Streets transformed into waterways, prompting large-scale rescue operations amid widespread panic across the ‘city of temples.’
Peerkho, one of the worst-hit areas, was left with vehicles half-buried in mud, debris, boulders, and uprooted trees. More than 300 people, including children and the elderly, were rescued in urgent operations, though fear continued to grip the residents.
Kumar emphasized the administration’s proactive approach: “The Deputy Commissioner, Municipal Commissioner, and MD JPDCL are all on the ground, working tirelessly to restore essentials while muck and debris are being cleared.”
He added that water and power services are being restored on a priority basis. “Around 70% of the water supply has been restored, with the remainder being addressed swiftly. Nearly 80% of the power supply is back, and work continues on a war footing,” he said.
Regarding relief measures, Kumar said the Deputy Commissioner is currently assessing the situation. “Ex gratia assistance will be provided to affected families once the assessment is complete. The government stands with the people during this difficult time,” he said, assuring that all facilities and essential supplies will soon be fully restored.
To support water supply restoration, the Deputy Commissioner has arranged private water tankers for the affected areas. “It will take some time, but we are committed to fully restoring the service,” Kumar added.
