Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has reached out to the people of land subsidence-hit Kalaban border area in Poonch district, hoping that the Centre will extend a relief package to the Union Territory. The package would be similar to those granted to Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Abdullah visited the affected area and assessed the damage caused by land subsidence in Kalaban village, near the Line of Control (LoC). Over 1,000 people have been affected, with more than 95 houses, a graveyard, and a mosque damaged. Residents have been relocated to safe shelters.
Rehabilitation Efforts
The administration has been asked to prepare a rehabilitation plan, including the grant of five marlas of land under the existing policy, for the approval of the Cabinet. Abdullah said, We will present our demands in front of the central government and hope that a good package will be given to Jammu and Kashmir.
The government already has a scheme under which landless people are given five marlas of government land. Following the same pattern, the administration will prepare a proposal to be presented to the Cabinet for careful consideration and approval.
Outreach Efforts
Abdullah emphasized the importance of outreach efforts, saying, It is our duty in this difficult time to help people as much as possible.
The rains have caused unprecedented damage in Jammu and Kashmir due to floods and landslides, affecting almost every district.
Whatever financial resources we have, we will use them to ensure relief reaches the people,
Abdullah added. The government is committed to providing aid and support to those affected by the floods and landslides.
