JAMMU: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) executive member Raman Suri today urged the authorities to fix responsibility for the loss of lives and property in the recent floods and landslides across Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The safety of devotees and tourists has to be made mandatory, and policy makers will also have to take responsibility for it.

Raman Suri pointed out saying that not even a fortnight has passed since the mistake made in Chashoti of Kishtwar was repeated on the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra route. “It is necessary to understand the signals of nature and, along with making the rules of the journey more strict, concern should be taken about the environment,” he added. “Also, a system should be created to keep an eye on such warnings, and it should remain continuously active towards the safety of tourists.

Only then can such untoward incidents be avoided in the future.” Addressing the broader crisis, Suri expressed deep concern over the situation created by continuous bad weather in Jammu and Kashmir. “People need to be cautious after the flood situation and waterlogging following cloudbursts at many places,” he said. “The weather department has already declared the next 24 hours as very important. It is good that the school education department has closed the schools for the safety of the children.

If the situation remains the same, then the higher education department should also take appropriate decisions. Students from far-flung areas also come to study in colleges and universities. In such a situation, no one’s life can be compromised.” Suri noted recent incidents of cloudbursts in Doda and Udhampur districts on Tuesday, which have caused rivers and streams to swell across the state, endangering lives in lower areas.

“However, the administration is also alert, and rescue operations have been launched in the areas where people are stranded,” he acknowledged. “The picture that has emerged in the cities and towns due to rain has also raised many questions. Crores of rupees spent on drains and streets in Smart City Jammu are seen going waste. The quality of construction work is under question, and the working style of construction agencies is on the target of the people.

Such a situation has arisen in the state after many years. The state government should focus its full attention on rescue operations. After the situation becomes normal, it should also be discussed whether the policy of building and settling colonies on ravines is correct.” The BJP leader stressed that these events underscore the urgency of reviewing urban planning and infrastructure policies to build resilience against climate challenges.

“We stand with the people of Jammu and Kashmir during this difficult time and demand immediate action to hold accountable those responsible for lapses, while implementing robust systems to safeguard lives and property,” Suri concluded. Raman Suri asked the authorities of essential services to restore the communication system, water and electricity supply in Jammu city and also restore road connectivity to areas that have been snapped due to landslides on war footings.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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