The recent floods in various parts of Kashmir valley have caused devastation on a large scale, not witnessed in the recent history of the State. Millions of people in various parts of the State, mainly in Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, Rajouri and Poonch have been affected by the ferocity of this flood. Hundreds of thousands of people are still living in temporary relief centres.
In the absence of any administrative response to this tragedy, people have been left to fend for themselves. The institutions of the State have completely collapsed and the non-existence of the administrative machinery in the rescue operations has been an utter shame. This has not only added to a sense of helplessness among people but also given rise to anger. The relief work was also largely carried out by civilian volunteers. In all this gloom, the response from people, both Kashmiri and non-Kashmiri across India has been positive and even overwhelming.
As the tragedy continues to unfold, the response to the ever changing situation will also change. From the initial focus on rescue and relief the entire focus is now on rehabilitation of people affected by the floods. The rehabilitation will be a long drawn process, which will not only need energetic volunteers, but resources as well. There is a race against time and the elements, given that winter will set in soon in Kashmir. It is important that the rehabilitation is properly planned and should take into account the fact that the affected people should be able to sustain the harsh winter conditions in Kashmir.
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