-Speaks to J&K LG Manoj Sinha and CM Omar Abdullah; NDRF teams deployed for rescue operations

New Delhi, August 14 (HS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday expressed deep concern over the cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, assuring that the Centre will extend every possible assistance to those affected by the natural disaster.

Shah said he had personally spoken with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take stock of the situation on the ground and review the immediate requirements for relief and rehabilitation.

In a post on social media platform X, the Home Minister informed that local administration is actively engaged in rescue and relief work, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been swiftly dispatched to the affected area.

“We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with our brothers and sisters in Jammu and Kashmir in this hour of need,” Shah wrote.

The cloudburst, which struck parts of Kishtwar early Thursday, triggered flash floods in local streams and rivulets, damaging houses and infrastructure in certain remote areas. Rescue efforts have been hampered in some pockets due to difficult terrain, but state disaster response teams and security forces are working to reach stranded residents.

Officials said assessment of damage and casualties is underway, while temporary shelters, medical assistance, and essential supplies are being arranged for displaced families.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar