Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has informed that all efforts are underway to restore the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and assist residential areas in Ramban that have been severely impacted by recent landslides caused by heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a government function in Srinagar, Abdullah said that he would personally visit Ramban today to assess the situation and lead a meeting focused on recovery efforts and to pass necessary directions on the spot.
“In several areas of Ramban, the situation has deteriorated,” Abdullah remarked. “I have dispatched the Deputy Chief Minister and two local MLAs to evaluate the circumstances on the ground.” He assured the public that immediate measures are being taken to clear the highway and provide relief to those affected by the landslides.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that arrangements are being made for relief assistance, with plans to tap into the Prime Minister’s relief fund and other financial resources to ensure that affected people receive adequate compensation for the damage they have suffered.
In an effort to quell concerns about potential shortages of essential goods, Abdullah reassured the public that there is no need for hoarding in Kashmir Valley. “We have directed government officials to take strict action against black marketing and unwarranted price hikes,” he said, adding that law enforcement will be involved in enforcing these measures, including potential arrests for violators. He urged people to report any instances of black marketing they face.
While the Jammu-Srinagar highway remains closed due to the adverse conditions, Abdullah noted that alternative routes, such as the Mughal Road, will be utilized if necessary to transport essential supplies to the Kashmir Valley.
Addressing a separate query regarding legal matters related to Waqf bill, Omar Abdullah backed the Supreme Court’s role in reviewing actions taken by the Centre and other governmental authorities. “We have approached the Supreme Court on issues like Article 370, and it has its own jurisdiction,” he explained. In response to PDP allegations of not passing the resolution in assembly on waqf, Omar said “Our actions in the Assembly were aimed at seeking justice through legal channels.”
Abdullah expressed optimism regarding the ongoing legal proceedings, stating that the Supreme Court’s discussions have compelled the Centre to reconsider certain positions. “For now, we await the court’s verdict while ensuring that self-declared waqf is not interfered with,” he said.
