Mehbooba seeks comprehensive rehabilitation package for Thathri flood victims

Srinagar, Jul 11: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has expressed deep concern over the widespread devastation caused by the recent flash floods in Thathri, Doda, which have left hundreds of families grappling with extensive damage to their homes, shops, vehicles and public infrastructure.
Describing the calamity as yet another painful reminder of the growing vulnerability of the Chenab region to recurring natural disasters, Ms. Mufti said that while emergency response is essential, the government cannot continue to treat such tragedies as isolated incidents. She said the people of Thathri deserve not only immediate relief but a comprehensive rehabilitation programme backed by adequate financial assistance and long-term preventive measures.
“The affected families have suffered enormous losses to their homes, livelihoods and businesses. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure that relief is not reduced to a mere formality but reaches every affected household in a transparent, time-bound and humane manner,” she said.
Mehbooba Mufti urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to immediately conduct a scientific assessment of the damage and announce a special rehabilitation package for the affected population. She demanded adequate compensation for damaged residential houses, commercial establishments, vehicles, agricultural land and other private property, along with financial support for traders and small business owners who have lost their sole source of livelihood.
She also called for the immediate restoration of the National Highway, damaged roads, electricity, drinking water supply and other essential public services to minimise the hardships faced by the local population.
Expressing concern over the increasing frequency of such disasters across the Chenab Valley, Mehbooba Mufti said the region has repeatedly suffered due to flash floods, landslides and other climate-induced events, exposing the absence of a credible disaster mitigation strategy.
She urged the government to formulate a comprehensive disaster resilience plan for the Chenab region, including construction of flood protection infrastructure, river training works, retaining walls, scientific slope stabilisation, improved drainage systems and modern early warning mechanisms in vulnerable areas.
“The people of Chenab Valley cannot be expected to rebuild their lives after every disaster while the administration continues with ad hoc responses. The time has come for a permanent policy framework that prioritises disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure and the safety of vulnerable communities,” she said.
Mehbooba Mufti also appealed to the administration to ensure complete transparency in the assessment and distribution of relief so that no affected family is deprived of assistance, while urging party workers and civil society organisations to extend every possible support to the victims during this difficult time. (KNS)