JAMMU: Former Minister and senior Congress leader Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma has demanded that the Centre announce a comprehensive relief package for flood-hit Jammu and Kashmir and declare the devastation a national calamity. Dr. Manohar made this demand after visiting several floods affected habitations Nand and Jasyal village Galak and Rajwalta, Tehsil Ramkot and Sundal of Majalta of Billawar constituency, Pyt Sundla,Tehsil Majalta,Block Khoon, District Udhampur, Pyt Rajwalta, Pyt Galak, in Billawar constituency.
Dr. Manohar speaking on the occasion emphasized that the flood-affected people don't deserve temporary solutions or handouts, but rather a comprehensive rehabilitation package that provides them with land and resources at safer places. Having lost everything in the devastating floods, these individuals require a holistic approach to rebuild their lives. Dr. Manohar stressed that all-out efforts must be made to enable them to lead dignified lives again, ensuring they have the necessary support and resources to recover and thrive .The sooner the government takes concrete steps to provide relief and rehabilitation to the affected families, the better it will be for them to rebuild their lives. Timely intervention is crucial in mitigating the suffering of those affected by the floods and ensuring their speedy recovery, added Dr Manohar.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Manohar demanded comprehensive package for reconstruction of damaged public and private infrastructure, rehabilitation of affected populations, including farmers who have lost their standing crops, relaxation of rules in providing relief to the affected population, free electricity for farmers till their productivity is restored, waiver of pending loans under Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and provision of fresh interest-free KCC loans and free ration for six months for families whose houses were submerged in the flash floods.
Dr. Manohar criticized the BJP-led central government for its failure to learn lessons from past calamities and make concrete efforts to tackle natural disasters like flash floods. He also expressed disappointment over the recent visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Jammu, saying that it dashed the hopes of the affected population.Dr. Manohar urged the government to take concrete measures to provide relief to the affected population, including restoring electricity and water supply to villages across Jammu division. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan to be made in consultation with all stakeholders to prevent such disasters in the future.
