DC Kathua takes stock of damages caused by incessant rains, landslides in Bani

KATHUA, July 20: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rakesh Minhas today visited Bani and took stock of ongoing relief and restoration works in hilly sub division which witnessed loss of lives and property due to inundation and landslides triggered by incessant rains.

The DC was accompanied by DDC, BDC members, ACR Kathua, SDM Bani and Engineers of PWD(R&B), PMGSY and GREF besides officers and officials of line departments.

On his arrival, the DC visited PHC Bani where he inspected the medical facilities and arrangements available to cater to healthcare emergencies. He also interacted with the injured and enquired about their health. He directed medical and paramedical staff of PHC to keep medical resources in operation-ready mode.

While inspecting Bani-Sandroon road, the DC directed executing agencies including PMGSY and GREF to expedite the restoration of road connectivity for smooth flow of traffic and commuters. He also inspected the Bani-Duggan road link where he directed PWD (R&B) to clear the road by roping in an adequate number of men and machinery.

Later, the DC held an interaction with locals, including PRI members who apprised him of the difficulties being faced by them amid prevailing inclement weather conditions and urged the DC to take concrete measures to deal with any eventuality.

The DC, after giving a patient hearing, assured the locals that administration will extend all possible help to mitigate the suffering of the people, besides devising mechanisms to tackle and prevent any such happenings in future in vulnerable areas.

On the occasion, a two minute silence was observed to condole the tragic incident where precious lives were lost.

Pertinently, District Administration Kathua has already announced immediate ex-gratia of Rs 50,000/- for the families of deceased and Rs 25000/- to the injured. The administration has also issued a weather advisory in view of inclement weather forecast to avoid venturing out to rivers, rivulets, nallahs as there is a high chance of flash floods and sudden rise in discharge/water level in rivers/nallahs.

Appositely, the District Administration has also circulated control room helpline numbers to enable people to report any mishaps to administration on dedicated telephone lines viz control room, DC Office Kathua- 01922-238796, PCR Kathua- 01922-234100, 9858034100.