12/09/2025
Floods expose administrative failures: Bhalla demands accountability, action
Jammu, September 12: The Working President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) and former minister, Mr Raman Bhalla, on Friday strongly condemned the administration for its consistent failure to take necessary flood protection measures over the last decade.
He held the authorities responsible for the large-scale loss of property and agricultural livelihoods in Jammu province, especially in areas severely affected by floods in the last week of August.
During his visit to flood-affected villages, including Dharap, Dharap Kothey, and Shergarh in Jammu district, Mr Bhalla interacted with distressed families and farmers whose lives and means of subsistence have been devastated by the recent floods. He expressed grave concern at the widespread destruction, reporting that hundreds of kanals of standing crops have been washed away or submerged, leaving cultivators in despair.
Mr. Bhalla was accompanied by Sarpanch Kashmir Singh, Balkar Singh, Harbans Singh, Prem Kumar, Ranjit Singh, Surjeet Singh, Dadar Singh, Shanty, Sanjay Katal, and others.
Addressing the gathered residents, Mr Bhalla said, “It is extremely painful to see our hardworking farmers losing their crops once again. The floods have not only damaged agricultural fields but also homes, roads, and basic infrastructure that are lifelines for rural communities. These losses are preventable, and the administration’s failure to implement flood mitigation strategies reflects a lack of foresight and commitment.”
He pointed out that the floods of 2014 had served as a stark warning, yet no long-term flood protection plans have been enforced.
“Instead of learning from past disasters, authorities have repeatedly ignored the need to strengthen riverbanks, upgrade drainage systems, and ensure timely intervention. As a result, vulnerable communities are left exposed to nature’s fury,” Mr Bhalla remarked and regretted that no step was taken to prevent flow of water of Balol Nullah in these areas.
The JKPCC leader further criticized the delay in relief and rehabilitation efforts, noting that affected families are still awaiting compensation and support. “People here are not asking for charity; they are demanding their right to protection and timely assistance. The government must ensure that those who have lost their livelihood are not abandoned to suffer alone,” he added.
During his visit, Mr Bhalla personally inspected damaged fields, spoke to farmers, and assured them that their plight will be raised at all platforms. He also urged district and state authorities to conduct thorough damage assessments and expedite relief packages, including financial assistance, restoration of irrigation channels, and repair of access roads.
Highlighting the broader implications, Mr Bhalla said, “Floods not only destroy crops but also erode the confidence of communities. If protective measures are not implemented in a structured manner, repeated disasters will push rural families into poverty, force migration, and further strain local economies.”
He called for a comprehensive flood management policy that includes regular maintenance of rivers and drainage channels, construction of embankments, early warning systems, and community-level awareness programs.
“It is high time the administration prioritizes disaster preparedness and works hand-in-hand with experts, engineers, and local communities to build resilient infrastructure,” he stated.
Mr Bhalla assured the people that he will continue advocating for the welfare of flood-hit families and pressing the government to act with urgency and responsibility. “The people of Jammu deserve dignity, security, and the means to rebuild their lives. Their voices cannot be ignored,” he affirmed.
