Govt prioritising flood management, mitigation: Sakeena

Kulgam, Nov 29: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday laid foundation stones of multiple flood mitigation projects in several areas of Kulgam district.
The initiative is part of Government’s major push towards strengthening flood mitigation infrastructure in areas like Arrigutnoo, Gudder, Nehama and Laisoo along the Veshow Nallah as well as on Nallah Gujerpora across Kulgam district.
The projects, sanctioned at an overall estimated costs of around 1.50 crores under the CDF (District Capex) for the year 2025–26, aims to safeguard habitations and agricultural land along the vulnerable stretches of Veshow Nallah, thereby reducing the risk of flood damage during high-flow of water. It also marks a major step towards safeguarding vulnerable communities and reinforcing critical infrastructure in a region frequently impacted by seasonal flooding.
Addressing the locals at various locations, the Minister emphasized on the government’s commitment to protecting lives, livelihoods, and essential services. She noted that the new projects, ranging from channelization works and embankment strengthening, are designed to address long-standing challenges faced by residents during periods of heavy rainfall and other natural calamities.
“These projects are not merely infrastructure upgrades, they are investments in security, stability, and well-being of our people,” the Minister stated.
She added that by prioritizing flood management, Government ensures that communities in Kulgam have stronger protection against natural calamities and uninterrupted access to essential health and public services.
Minister further highlighted the Government’s continued commitment to enhancing flood protection measures and ensuring the safety of communities living along riverbanks and Nallahs.
Sakeena Itoo emphasized that such projects are vital for long-term resilience building and protection of public assets.
The locals, while interacting with the Minister at various locations, expressed gratitude to the Minister and Government for addressing long-pending demand aimed at protecting the area from recurrent flood threats, adding that these improved flood protection will bring a greater sense of safety and significantly reduce damage to homes, farmland, and key infrastructure.