Sir,
Unplanned urbanisation in the State of J& Kashmir has remained a matter of concern for all the people since 1960. Even our State Govt officials admit that 50 per cent lakes ponds and also net lands have been converted into residential and commercial places. New colonies were established since 1960 onwards and agriculture land and green pastures had been strunk since then. Water outlets have been grossly encroached and river beds have been illegally used in raising structures. Drainage and sewerage system has been choked and water passages got reduced felling of trees in the forest lands is always posing a threat to human life and property. The devasting results that last week we saw has turned the State into misery and destruction. Towns and villages have largely spread across the state and water gates stand destroyed. There have been floods in the past too but what happened today is a late of misfortune. The Valley turned into a vast lake of muddy water with only roof tops of houses and electric poles looking all around. Streets have turned into mini rivers and people screaming for help at the roof tops of their houses.
Our armed forces have done a commendable job in rescuing people all along and are facing the challenge taking all risks. With bravery and fortitude. Now when the flood waters have begun to recede in the State some semblence of order is now returning by and by. Traffic on the National Highway has been restored and cell phones have started working. Our Govt has still to go long ahead in relief and rescue operations. The epedemic threat is looming over our heads and we have to take strong measures against the water borne diseases in case these spread our Govt should plan disaster management and outline the priorities in the management of such crisis. It needs postmorten in the management of such crisis. It needs postmorten so that in future we stand prepared. Our Govt should take lesson from this natural calamity and workout plan accordingly for the State of Jammu and Kashmir.
Yours etc…
S N Raina
Jammu