Preparing for next storm

The heavy rainfall that triggered deadly flash floods, landslides and shooting stones across Jammu and Kashmir has once again exposed the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather. The tragic loss of lives in Poonch, Rajouri and Doda, along with widespread damage to roads, bridges, homes and public utilities, has left many families facing unimaginable hardship. Nature cannot be controlled, but its impact can be reduced through better planning and preparedness. Weather warnings had already indicated the possibility of heavy rain, flash floods and landslides. Such alerts must trigger immediate preventive measures, including evacuation of highly vulnerable locations, temporary closure of dangerous road stretches and round-the-clock monitoring of flood-prone areas. The repeated closure of highways and damage to critical infrastructure demonstrate that disaster resilience must become an integral part of development planning. Roads in mountainous terrain require improved slope stabilisation, efficient drainage and continuous geological monitoring. Public infrastructure should be designed to withstand increasingly intense rainfall events rather than average seasonal conditions. Equally important is strengthening community preparedness. Local volunteers, village disaster management committees and emergency communication systems can significantly reduce casualties during the crucial first few hours of a disaster. Public awareness about avoiding swollen streams, unstable slopes and unnecessary travel during severe weather also deserves greater attention. The coordinated efforts of rescue agencies and security forces have been commendable, but the ultimate measure of success lies in preventing avoidable loss of life. Relief and compensation provide immediate support, yet rebuilding must focus on safer housing, stronger infrastructure and improved disaster management capacity. Climate-related disasters are becoming more frequent across the Himalayan region. Jammu and Kashmir must respond with a long-term strategy built on scientific planning, early warning systems, resilient infrastructure and public participation. Every monsoon should reinforce preparedness, not expose the same vulnerabilities year after year.