Baramulla, Jul 19: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said the administration had stepped up rescue and relief operations in the flood-affected districts of Poonch and Rajouri, where flash floods and landslides have caused fatalities and extensive damage.
Speaking to reporters in Baramulla, LG Sinha said the situation in the affected districts was being monitored round the clock, with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), J&K Police, and other emergency agencies working in close coordination to evacuate stranded residents and provide relief to affected families.
“The situation in Poonch and Rajouri is under constant review. The AmarnathYatra has been suspended temporarily as a precautionary measure. There has been loss of life, but the exact number of casualties will be confirmed after official verification,” he said.
The LG said the administration was in regular contact with district authorities and had directed all concerned departments to intensify rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures.
He said that every possible assistance was being extended to people affected by the floods and landslides.
Earlier, addressing an interfaith dialogue organised by the Save Youth Save Future Foundation at DakBunglow Baramulla, LG Sinha highlighted the importance of communal harmony, shared cultural values and youth participation in building a peaceful and progressive J&K.
He said every citizen has a responsibility to preserve the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, adding that lasting social transformation begins with individual commitment rather than mere words.
Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals, he urged people to strengthen mutual respect and reject divisions based on religion or community.
About the drug abuse, LG Sinha said the 100-day NashaMukt J&K campaign had witnessed active public participation.
He commended volunteers for reaching villages and towns, engaging with affected families and spreading awareness against substance abuse.
Calling for a people-led movement against drugs, the LG said J&K’s youth were increasingly embracing entrepreneurship, innovation, education, and national unity over violence and addiction.
He said Baramulla had a rich history of communal harmony.
Recalling the Baramulla Gurdwara’s support to families displaced by cross-border shelling in Uri, he described it as a shining example of Kashmir’s long-standing tradition of interfaith solidarity and compassion.
