Srinagar: The recent floods in various parts of Kashmir valley and Jammu province 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 have been evacuated from their houses who are now living in temporary relief centres. The initial phase of evacuation is almost over, though there are still people stranded in their houses who need evacuation. 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 is also been 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. People in various cities across India have generously contributed towards these relief supplies and in many cases have also sent shipments of essential goods like medicine and bay food to Kashmir.
As the tragedy continues to unfold, the response to the ever changing situation will also change. From the initial focus on rescue, the entire focus is now on relief supplies to people in various flood affected areas and relief shelters. Since the valley was cut off from rest of India for almost two weeks, there has been an acute shortage of essential items in these areas. Now the Jammu-Srinagar highway has opened up which should bring a bit of relief to people.
But as and when water completely recedes from flood affected areas and people begin to return to their homes, one can make a reasonable assessment of the losses suffered. Many houses have completely collapsed, but the exact numbers will be known only after some semblance of normalcy is restored. Many houses would have suffered structural damages and those loses can be known only after a proper assessment is made.
Rescue and relief operations will have to be followed by rehabilitation and that will be along 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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