BHADERWAH: Deputy Commissioner Doda Harvinder Singh today visited Upper Puneja village in Bhaderwah to assess the damage caused by a recent fire incident in Karal Mohalla where four residential houses were completely gutted.

The DC was accompanied by Tehsildar Bhaderwah, Naib Tehsildar Bhaderwah, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Bhaderwah and AE (PWD). During the visit, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with the affected families and assured them of all possible administrative support, including relief and compensation as per disaster management norms.

The fire which broke out earlier this week rapidly engulfed the closely built structures due to strong winds, destroying houses belonging to Raj Mohammad, Abdul Shakoor, Abdul Qayoom and Jaan Mohammad. Fortunately, no loss of life was reported. Fire and emergency services, along with local volunteers, made efforts to control the blaze; however, the absence of direct road connectivity posed serious challenges in timely firefighting.

Officials informed that the affected area lies nearly 1 km uphill from the nearest motorable road forcing fire service personnel to reach the spot on foot. This delay significantly contributed to the extent of damage. The district administration is coordinating with concerned departments to provide temporary shelter, essential supplies and medical support to the affected families.

Meanwhile, villagers raised concerns regarding the lack of basic infrastructure, particularly road connectivity. They demanded firewood, timber for roof reconstruction and immediate compensation to affected families. The Deputy Commissioner assured them that their demands would be examined sympathetically and reiterated the administration’s commitment to improving connectivity and emergency access to prevent such incidents in the future.  

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here