Javed Rana Inspects Landslide-Hit Areas in Poonch, Pledges Full Government Assistance to Affected Families

POONCH, August 06, 2026 — Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment, and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, conducted an extensive visit to the landslide and flash flood-ravaged areas of Sarhoti Jabran in Poonch district today to evaluate the ground reality and extend strong solidarity to the impacted communities. Accompanied by a team of senior officials—including the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Mendhar, the Superintending Engineer of Hydraulic, Executive Engineers from PWD (R&B), PMGSY, and Jal Shakti (PHE), alongside the DFO of Soil Conservation—the Minister inspected the severe destruction triggered by recent incessant downpours. The natural calamity caused widespread damage across residential houses, educational institutions, road networks, key public infrastructure, and vast agricultural lands. Interacting directly with the affected residents, Rana listened to their pressing grievances and reaffirmed the government’s resolute commitment to providing comprehensive relief, rehabilitation, and swift structural restoration.

Describing the catastrophe as deeply unfortunate and distressing, Minister Javed Rana assured the local populace that the state administration stands firmly behind every affected family during this period of crisis. He emphasized that safeguarding lives remains the top priority and confirmed that explicit directions have been issued to the district administration to execute relief measures on a war footing without bureaucratic delay. Highlighting the administration’s immediate objectives, he stated that the primary focus lies on providing emergency aid, restoring road connectivity, and ensuring the uninterrupted supply of drinking water, electricity, and health services. Furthermore, temporary shelters and essential commodities—such as food, clean drinking water, and medicines—are actively being distributed, while engineers and field teams prioritize the immediate repair of damaged water supply systems, roads, and bridges.

Commending the frontline response efforts, the Minister expressed deep appreciation for the exceptional courage displayed by the district administration, Police, SDRF, Forest Department, health personnel, engineers, and local volunteers. He noted that their round-the-clock dedication under extremely hazardous terrain and adverse weather conditions played a crucial role in saving lives and stabilizing the region. Acknowledging the rising frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, Rana pointed out that the government is systematically upgrading its disaster preparedness and mitigation frameworks to minimize future risks to life and property. He assured the residents that long-term rehabilitation plans will be executed in close coordination with local communities to ensure complete recovery and resilient rebuilding across the Poonch district.