Amit Shah assures full support to J&K after heavy rainfall

Srinagar, July 08: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said Union Home Minister Amit Shah has assured all possible assistance from the Centre following heavy rainfall and flash floods that affected several parts of the Union Territory.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, the Chief Minister said the worst impact was witnessed in the Chenab Valley and parts of Kathua district, where torrential rains caused disruption to normal life and damaged infrastructure.

Abdullah said the Home Minister personally contacted him to assess the situation and was briefed about the extent of the damage caused by the adverse weather.
“He enquired about the situation and assured that the Central Government is ready to extend every possible assistance whenever required,” the Chief Minister said.
The assurance comes after intense rainfall triggered flash floods earlier this week, severely affecting the Chenab Valley. In Doda district, floodwaters and debris blocked the National Highway 244 near Premnagar, forcing the closure of the highway and leaving several vehicles stranded for hours.
The floods also caused damage to infrastructure at the 540 MW Kwar Hydroelectric Power Project in Kishtwar district.
Officials said emergency teams were immediately pressed into service to clear debris and restore traffic movement. Highway Manager Sunny Padha said heavy machinery, including excavators and JCBs, was deployed to reopen the road, describing the flooding at Premnagar as one of the most severe witnessed in the area.
The highway closure also affected the annual Machail Yatra, with authorities advising pilgrims and commuters to avoid the route until it is declared safe for travel.
The administration continues to monitor the situation as restoration work is underway in the affected districts. (KINS)