Saroori visits fire-hit areas in Bunjwah, demands relief

Ex-minister GM Saroori interacting with people in Bunjwah area of Kishtwar.
Ex-minister GM Saroori interacting with people in Bunjwah area of Kishtwar.

Excelsior Correspondent
KISHTWAR, Dec 19: Former minister Ghulam Mohd Saroori conducted an extensive tour of the Bunjwah area and met people of affected villages of Nali, Binoon, and Patnazi to address the grievances of the local populace and provide solace to those affected by recent hardships.
The visit was marked by heartfelt interactions with residents who shared the challenges they face, particularly regarding the PMAY scheme and the devastating fire that left families homeless.
During his visit to Patnazi, Saroori met with the family of Ghulam Nabi, a local resident whose house was completely destroyed in a recent fire incident. The fire, which caused massive damage, left the family with an estimated loss of Rs 40-50 lakhs. Saroori personally assessed the extent of the devastation and listened to the family’s plight.
Saroori acknowledged the initial aid provided by the Deputy Commissioner and the Red Cross Society, including some immediate relief supplies, but stated that the assistance was insufficient given the magnitude of the loss. He called upon the authorities to expedite further relief efforts and provide substantial financial support to help the affected family rebuild their lives.
Former minister highlighted the urgent need for a Fire and Emergency Services station in Bunjwah, pointing out the lack of essential firefighting infrastructure in the area. He emphasized that areas like Mughal Maidan, Chatroo, and Kahar also require dedicated fire brigade facilities to ensure timely responses to such incidents in the future.
He urged the Dy Commissioner to ensure that the affected family is provided with free timber from the Forest Department to aid in reconstructing their home. Saroori appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, requesting financial assistance of Rs 5-10 lakhs for the family to cover their losses and rebuild their lives.
The people raised concerns about the difficulties they face in preparing and processing applications for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Residents expressed their struggles with bureaucratic hurdles and the delay in receiving benefits under the housing scheme, which is crucial for those in economically weaker sections.