Jammu: Raman Bhalla, Working President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) and former Cabinet Minister, on Thursday undertook an extensive visit to flood-affected areas of Jammu, where he interacted with residents and assessed the widespread damage caused by the recent floods.
Expressing deep concern over the slow pace of relief and rehabilitation, Bhalla issued a strong appeal to the administration to act swiftly and responsibly in addressing the crisis.
Bhalla was accompanied by Amrit Bali, Pawan Bhagat, Gurcharan Singh Happy, and Bitta during his visit to Bhour Kothey, Bhour Camp, and adjoining areas of the Floriculture Garden, including the cremation ground at Bhour Camp, where he directly observed the hardships faced by residents.
During his tour, Bhalla pointed out that even after more than ten days since the floods, malba (mud and debris) continues to choke the internal lanes and homes of several localities.
“The situation remains grim. Residents are struggling to resume normal life as the debris has not been cleared. There is a glaring shortage of machinery and manpower. Authorities must immediately mobilize resources, even if it means diverting heavy machinery from the National Highway and seeking assistance from allied organizations,” Bhalla said.
He further noted that the rising water levels in nallahs posed a continuing risk, demanding urgent preventive measures. Bhalla also highlighted the plight of families unable to perform last rites in their local cremation grounds, many of which have been rendered unusable due to flooding.
“It is heartbreaking that people are being forced to move to distant villages for cremation. This reflects the government’s lack of preparedness in ensuring basic dignity for the affected families,” he said.
The Congress leader demanded immediate restoration of road connectivity, deployment of medical teams to low-lying areas, and urgent sanitation drives.
“Sanitation, hygiene, and public health are at severe risk. Without timely medical assistance, there is a looming threat of waterborne diseases,” he cautioned.
Bhalla also called for direct distribution of packed food, clothing, and other essentials.
“These are not luxuries but basic necessities that people are being deprived of. The government must ensure that no family goes hungry or without support in such trying times,” he stressed.
Targeting the BJP-led government, Bhalla ridiculed Jammu’s “smart city” claims.
“If this is a smart city, then what is a failed one? The floods have exposed hollow claims. Infrastructure has collapsed under pressure, leaving citizens to suffer,” he remarked.
Demanding urgent financial aid, Bhalla pressed for compensation not only for affected families but also for farmers whose agricultural lands have been devastated.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our region. Farmers are among the worst sufferers in this tragedy and deserve fair and timely compensation,” he asserted.
Referring to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent visit, Bhalla expressed disappointment that the flood-hit areas have not been declared a “national disaster zone.” He questioned the administration’s silence on this crucial matter, stressing that such recognition would pave the way for larger relief packages and institutional support.
“The government must rise above optics and deliver on its responsibilities. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are in pain. They need immediate relief, long-term rehabilitation, and above all, a government that is accountable to them,” Bhalla concluded.
