KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a meeting of concerned departments to review the situation arising in the aftermath of incessant rains and flash floods across the district.

During the meeting, the DC directed the departments of PWD, PDD and PHE to ensure early restoration of road connectivity, power supply and water services in the affected areas. He instructed that all temporary restoration works be executed strictly under SDRF norms and guidelines.

The DC also directed the PHE Department to provide water supply through tanker services in the affected areas until the pipelines are restored. The XEN PHE apprised the meeting about the status of drinking water supply and the arrangements being made to resume full-fledged services at the earliest.

The DC asked the Chief Education Officer to make a detailed assessment of damages to school infrastructure and prepare a plan for repairs within the Rs 2 lakh ceiling under SDRF guidelines for quick restoration.

The ADC Billawar and SDM Hiranagar joined the meeting through virtual mode. They informed the chair about the situation in their respective jurisdictions. The DC asked for systematic on-ground assessment of damages by stakeholder departments to prepare a comprehensive plan for permanent restoration.

While reviewing the road connectivity scenario, the DC directed for the restoration of the Basohli–Mahanpur on war footing, with inputs from the Geological Survey of India for devising a permanent solution to frequent damages. He assured that funds for major restoration works will be projected to the government for timely release.

The DC stressed close inter-departmental coordination and optimum use of men and machinery to mitigate the hardships being faced by the people affected by incessant rains and flash floods.

Regarding the damage caused to the District AYUSH and JPDCL office buildings due to flash floods in Sahar Khad, the DC directed SE PWD to undertake timely protection works along the structures to prevent further damage.

The meeting was informed that over 30 roads, including Katli Road, Dilwan Road, Kumri Kathera Road and several roads in Bani areas, have been marred by flash floods and landslides.

The DC asked the field officers to remain stationed in affected areas to oversee restoration works and maintain constant communication with the District Administration for quick response and support. ADDC Kathua Surinder Mohan, ADC Kathua Vishavjeet Singh, CPO Kathua Ranjit Thakur, CEO Kathua and other concerned officers were also present.

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