Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday reached out to people injured in the Vaishno Devi landslide, and said it was the result of a cloudburst and the pilgrimage was already suspended when it occurred.
He spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and briefed them about the post-flood situation.
Interacting with reporters, Sinha said, “This has been a very unfortunate incident. Around noon yesterday, a cloudburst occurred when the yatra was already suspended,” he said.
“Due to the cloudburst, several people were swept away by the waters. Many precious lives have been lost, and several others have been injured,” he said.
Sinha, who visited the injured pilgrims at Narayana Hospital in Katra, said, “I have just met the injured persons. Thirteen of them are admitted to the hospital here; they are stable and are receiving the best possible treatment.”
The LG said many of those who died in the landslide have already been identified, and arrangements are being made by the administration and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) to send bodies to their families.
“No amount of compensation can make up for the loss of life, but according to the shrine board’s policy, an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh will be given to the family of each deceased,” he added.
He said an additional Rs 4 lakh will be provided from SDRF.
The LG said he spoke to the prime minister and the Union home minister about the devastation Jammu suffered in the calamity.
“The entire administration is engaged in protecting people’s lives and property. Relief and rescue operations are underway. In the evening meeting, we will discuss how these efforts can be further strengthened,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor has also briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hon'ble Minister Shri Amit Shah on the flood situation and the ongoing relief and rescue operations in various Districts of Jammu Kashmir.
He has directed the officials for maximum readiness and presence of staff at their posts to respond to emergency situations.
Sinha also spoke to Divisional Commissioner, Jammu Ramesh Kumar and other senior Officials and took stock of flood situation and rescue and relief Operations.
He has directed the officials for restoration of Power, Communication, Water Supply on priority in areas where flood water is receding.
More than 5000 people were evacuated from low-lying flooded areas to safety.
Army, NDRF and SDRF are working in coordination with the Divisional Commissioner’s office and we are ensuring that there is adequate supply of relief materials and all possible assistance is being given to those affected.
The Lieutenant Governor has also prayed for the safety and well-being of everyone affected by the natural calamity in various parts of Jammu Division, and those brave emergency responders and citizens actively helping in the relief efforts.