KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today conducted an extensive tour of Lakhanpur and Bhagthali Industrial Estate areas to take stock of the situation arising from the increased water levels in River Ravi following the release of water from the Ranjit Sagar Dam.

During the visit to Lakhanpur, the Deputy Commissioner informed that inter-state connectivity has been impacted due to damage to one of the bridges connecting Punjab. However, traffic movement on the second bridge has been temporarily restored to facilitate essential and emergency services.

In a swift response, the District Administration evacuated livestock from the Animal Husbandry Check Post at the Lakhanpur entry point, which has now been relocated to the State Tax building to ensure uninterrupted operations.

At Bhagthali Industrial Estate, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the ongoing protection work being carried out by the Flood Control authorities and directed them to take all preventive and safety measures to safeguard lives and property in vulnerable areas.

He further informed that the protection work on the Sahard Khad Bridge is progressing and it will be opened for vehicular traffic at the earliest. The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the public to exercise utmost caution and avoid venturing near the river, nallahs, and rivulets, as the water levels remain high and pose a significant risk to safety.

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