Srinagar, July 19: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden floods that occurred in Rajouri following heavy rainfall overnight. The floods have caused significant damage to public and private property, disrupting life in the city and surrounding areas.
CM Abdullah stated that he has been closely monitoring the situation since morning. His office is in constant contact with local representatives and district officials to ensure timely relief and rescue operations. Reiterating the government’s commitment to the affected individuals, the Chief Minister assured that every possible assistance would be provided to families impacted by the floods.
He remarked, “Since morning, I have been closely observing the conditions in Jammu, particularly in Rajouri city and its surroundings, which have been severely affected by heavy rainfall. I am in touch with local legislators. The administration’s top priority is to save precious lives. The government will make every effort to assist those who have suffered property loss due to the rain and sudden floods.”
The Chief Minister also mentioned that, considering the weather department’s warnings and the severity of the situation in some parts of the Jammu division, he would be traveling from Delhi to Jammu this afternoon to assess the ground conditions personally. The heavy rainfall overnight has led to sudden flooding in several areas of Rajouri, submerging residential neighborhoods and causing extensive damage to infrastructure and property. As a precaution, hundreds of residents have been relocated to safer areas.
Rescue teams, in collaboration with civil administration, are conducting ground-level relief and rescue operations, continuously monitoring the situation, and providing assistance to affected residents. The Chief Minister emphasized that saving lives is the government’s primary concern and directed the administration to ensure immediate relief, rehabilitation, and all necessary support for those affected by the natural disaster.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning indicating that from July 19 to July 23, Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar, is likely to experience adverse weather and heavy to very heavy rainfall. Residents are advised to exercise caution during this period.
The general public, especially those living in Fakir Gujri, nearby areas, and Khonmoh, are advised to avoid hilly slopes, landslide-prone areas, or water bodies until the weather clears. Tourists and local shikara operators are recommended to halt all activities in Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake during the weather warnings.
Similarly, individuals engaged in sand extraction along the Jhelum River and other water bodies are strictly advised against crossing the river or undertaking any sand extraction work without checking the current conditions and water levels.
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