Hakeem urges swift relief for windstorm, rainfall victims in J&K, Seeks recovery & relief for drowned labourers in Uri

Srinagar: The Chairman of the People’s Democratic Front (PDF) and former Minister, Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen, has expressed profound concern over the loss of lives and extensive property damage due to heavy snowfall, incessant rains, and strong winds across Jammu and Kashmir.
Calling for immediate ex-gratia relief and compensation for the affected families. Additionally, Hakeem urged the Jammu & Kashmir Government to urgently locate the bodies of three missing laborers who were swept away after an old Gungal Bridge in the Uri area of Baramulla district collapsed on Sunday, causing distress to their families.
In a statement issued on Monday, Hakeem demanded compensation for those whose lives and properties were severely affected by the recent heavy rains, landslides, hailstorms, and gusty winds that damaged residential houses, structures, and apple orchards in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
He emphasized the urgent need to reach out to affected individuals and provide timely relief. Hakeem called for authorities to swiftly assess the losses and provide adequate relief to the affected people.
Hakeem also appealed to the government to establish reliable all-weather connectivity in the Valley to address frequent blockades on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, especially during the winter months, when adverse weather conditions disrupt economic activities in the region.
He highlighted the annual challenges faced in March due to heavy rains, landslides, and gusty winds causing damage to residential areas and structures, sometimes resulting in the loss of human lives and livestock.
Addressing the issue of waterlogging caused by heavy rains in various areas of the Kashmir Valley, including parts of Srinagar city, Hakeem stressed the need for a permanent solution. He called for the replacement of the defective drainage system on an urgent basis and an increase in the number of dewatering pump stations and mobile pumps to swiftly alleviate waterlogging issues.
Hakeem warned that the upcoming rainy days could exacerbate the problems faced by the people and urged the government’s immediate attention.
Highlighting the deteriorating condition of the Srinagar-Jammu highway, which faces frequent disruptions, Hakeem emphasized the impact on vital sectors like businesses, agriculture, and tourism, crucial for Kashmir’s economic growth.
He urged the government to establish robust infrastructural facilities urgently to ensure uninterrupted connectivity throughout the year. Hakeem emphasized that the unreliable connectivity on the Srinagar-Jammu highway poses a constant obstacle for local businesses, leading to financial losses and hindering overall economic development.
Hakeem lamented the havoc wreaked by rains and snow across Kashmir, reporting casualties, injuries, extensive property damage, and stranded vehicles on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.