Tara Chand demands special relief package for J&K to deal with devastating floods
Jammu, 01-09-2025: In response to the widespread devastation caused by recent flash floods in Chhamb and Akhnoor constituencies, the former Deputy Chief Minister and Working President of J&K Congress, Tarachand, today visited the flood-affected areas of Indri, Chak Sikander, Bakore, Gardh, Saint, Gigrial and Khour. During his visit, he personally assessed the damages, interacted with the affected communities, and expressed his deep concern for the well-being of the residents, many of whom have lost their homes, livestock, and crops due to the calamity.
Tara Chand demanded an early announcement of a special relief package for Jammu and Kashmir. The former Deputy Chief Minister began his tour early in the morning, visiting several villages and towns across the flood-hit regions. The visit provided a firsthand account of the widespread destruction caused by the floodwaters, which have left many families in distress. The former Deputy Chief Minister was seen engaging in numerous discussions with local residents, community leaders, and volunteers who have been actively involved in relief operations.
Roads, bridges, and homes in multiple areas have been destroyed, making it extremely difficult for residents to access basic necessities. In several areas, the floodwaters have washed away vital infrastructure, leaving communities isolated. Many families have been displaced and are now living in makeshift shelters. The extent of the damage to homes and agricultural lands has made it harder for people to return to normalcy.
The floods have not only disrupted daily life but also destroyed the livelihoods of many families. Farmers in particular have been severely impacted, with vast swathes of crops and livestock lost to the floods. Alongside the destruction, health and sanitation concerns have been raised. Many villages lack access to clean drinking water and sanitation, putting residents at risk of waterborne diseases.
During his visit, the former Deputy Chief Minister made an impassioned appeal to the state and central governments to provide immediate and comprehensive assistance to the affected regions. He highlighted the urgency of providing financial aid, relief materials, and medical support to the communities that have been left in dire conditions.
He further emphasized the importance of swift action to restore vital infrastructure such as roads and bridges and ensure that affected families are given temporary shelter and food. “The scale of the destruction is overwhelming. It is crucial that the government responds immediately to the needs of these flood-hit communities. The affected people are in dire need of relief materials, financial aid, and government support to rebuild their homes and lives,” the former Deputy Chief Minister stated.
“The people of Pargwal, Khour, and Jourian have suffered immensely due to this natural disaster. The damage to their homes, livelihoods, and the loss of crops is heartbreaking. It is essential that the government steps in urgently with a comprehensive relief package, which includes restoring infrastructure, providing humanitarian aid, and offering financial support for rehabilitation efforts. We must work together to restore the lives of these communities.”
Beyond immediate relief, the former Deputy Chief Minister also called for a long-term rehabilitation plan, which will involve rebuilding homes, restoring agricultural lands, and providing necessary financial assistance to those who have lost everything. He stressed that the state’s recovery strategy should focus not only on relief but also on sustainable solutions to ensure the resilience of these communities in the face of future natural calamities.
Others who accompanied him were
Gen. Secty. PCC, Narinder Sharma,Vijay Singh Chib,S. Nirmal Singh Mehta, Devinder Singh Bittu,Ex. MC president Khour Ashok Sharma, Jagdish Kumar Sharma, Madan Lal Sharma, Ex. Sarpanch Puran Singh, Adv.Prashant Singh Manhas, Mukesh Kumar, KK Bhagat, Pt Somraj, Romesh Verma,Tarsem bhagat and others.
