DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, Aug 28
Senior BJP leader and former Minister Bali Bhagat expressed deep condolences over the tragic loss of lives in Jammu and Kashmir caused by heavy rains, flash floods, and the recent landslide on the Vaishno Devi Yatra route. Extending heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families, Bhagat said the calamities have caused untold suffering and disruption across the Union Territory, affecting thousands of residents, pilgrims, and local communities.
In his statement, Bhagat demanded that the government announce adequate compensation without delay, granting a special relief package under natural calamity provisions and the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that immediate financial assistance is crucial for families who have lost loved ones, homes, or livelihoods due to the unprecedented rains and landslides. Bhagat further demanded that the government release adequate compensation for damaged agricultural land, orchards, and crops, as well as for fruit and vegetable growers. He also urged financial assistance for small traders, including juggies, rehari and fari walas, who have suffered massive losses due to the floods and heavy rains.
Highlighting the scale of damage, Bhagat pointed out that national highways, link roads, and bridges—including belly bridges—have been severely damaged or rendered impassable. Residential houses, government schools, canals, drainage systems, lanes, and other public buildings across urban and rural areas have suffered extensive destruction. He also referred to the Vaishno Devi landslide, which has not only claimed lives but has halted the sacred pilgrimage, affecting lakhs of devotees and causing a severe blow to faith-driven tourism and local economies.
Bhagat urged the administration to take immediate measures for restoration and reconstruction of all critical infrastructure, including national highways, link roads, bridges, canals, drainage systems, and public facilities, to ensure safe movement, resumption of essential services, and rehabilitation of affected families. He also stressed coordinated action by the government, disaster management authorities, and local bodies to restore normalcy and prevent further loss.
The senior BJP leader underscored that a comprehensive plan for relief, compensation, and infrastructure restoration is necessary to mitigate long-term impacts on the people, pilgrims, and economy of Jammu and Kashmir. Bhagat concluded by calling on the government to act decisively and swiftly, ensuring the safety, welfare, and livelihood of all affected residents in the Union Territory.
