The two-day wet spell has yet again started haunting the residents of Kashmir Valley as the incessant rainfall has increased the water level in river Jhelum and other tributaries in the Valley. By late evening, the water was flowing above the flood alert mark at twin places including Sangam and Pampore. However, the decline in the precipitation would certainly bring respite as the water level would start receding in case there is no rainfall anywhere in the next few hours. But, one fails to understand the outcome behind the much hyped dredging process on which a hefty amount was spent by the government in the recent years following the devastating floods that killed dozens of people across the Valley and damaged properties worth crores of rupees in the year 2014. It is unfortunate that despite spending huge amount, the few hours of rain have once again caused a flood like situation, which indicates how poorly things have been done to ensure the 2014 like situation is not repeated. It seems obvious that the more two days of rainfall can repeat the 2014 like situation in the valley. However, at this juncture there is a need to ensure that the embankments are strengthened further and ensure that there is no breach anywhere. The government should once again consider the preventive measures that would end such a situation in the future and ensure the precious lives are saved.
Stranded Umrah pilgrims need timely assistance
The reported stranding of Umrah pilgrims from Kashmir in Saudi Arabia following flight cancellations highlights the need for effective coordination,...
