At least 9,000 people have been evacuated from the flood-hit Budgam district of central Kashmir after breaches on the Jhelum embankments at Zonipora, resulting in flooding of the area.
Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, said on Thursday that the people were evacuated last night to prevent any loss of life.
Accompanied by IGP Kashmir and the Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar and Budgam, Garg visited Lasjan and Nowgam to assess the situation and ensure that coordinated efforts were underway to safeguard the residents. He oversaw the relief and rescue operations.
He also shared updates on evacuation efforts, stating that evacuations have been carried out in six villages of Budgam, while preventive evacuations are underway in Srinagar. He urged people to avoid venturing into low-lying areas as a safety measure.
He added that the weather conditions have started improving, especially in South Kashmir, and most areas are currently experiencing clear skies.
“Water levels at Sangam and Ram Munshi Bagh are receding, which is a positive sign,” he stated.
He added that relief and rescue teams, including personnel from the SDRF, NDRF, police, and revenue departments, are actively engaged in operations in affected low-lying areas, ensuring timely assistance to residents.
“To ensure proper coordination and effective on-ground response, senior officials of divisional administration and district administrations are present on the spot,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of public cooperation, Garg appreciated the support from the people and said that continuous announcements are being made to keep the public alert and informed.
Garg, along with Deputy Commissioner Budgam, visited Shalina to inspect ongoing relief and mitigation efforts, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to supporting all affected residents.
Following the breach in Budgam, and as a preemptive and precautionary measure, the district administration of Srinagar has advised residents of Lasjan, Soiteng, Nowgam, Vyethpora, Golpora, Padshahibagh, and Mehjoornagar to evacuate these areas and move to safer places.
Besides, announcements have been made through local committees, mosques, and local revenue and police authorities in these areas.