JAMMU: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) executive member Raman Suri has called on the government to urgently assess the extensive damage caused by the high-velocity storm that struck Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. The storm, which escalated into hurricane-like conditions in several areas, caused widespread disruption, particularly in the Jammu division, with significant losses to farmers, fruit growers, and infrastructure.

The devastating weather event led to the collapse of a house and two shops in Chasana, Reasi district, due to a cloudburst, with a car buried under debris and several animals lost. Uprooted trees, damaged crops, and fruit plants have severely impacted the livelihoods of farmers and growers. The storm also caused extensive damage to the electricity infrastructure, with over a hundred poles and a dozen transformers destroyed in Jammu district alone.

The back wall of the secretariat in Jammu collapsed under which several vehicles suffered damages, and hailstorms in Udhampur further compounded the destruction. “The government must immediately deploy teams to assess the losses suffered by our people, especially farmers and fruit growers, who are the backbone of our economy,” said Suri. “Prompt compensation must be provided to help them recover from this unforeseen calamity.”

Raman Suri also highlighted the Meteorological Department’s forecast of continued rainfall and potential snowfall in higher areas until April 21, 2025, with a yellow warning issued for farmers to suspend agricultural activities. Dust storms are expected to resume from the evening of April 18, posing further risks. “Given the prediction of more adverse weather, the government must act proactively to safeguard lives and property,” Suri urged.

“The disaster management team should be pressed into service immediately to ensure adequate measures are in place to mitigate further damage.” Suri emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to restore normalcy and protect vulnerable communities. “We stand with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in this challenging time and demand swift action to address their plight,” he said.

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