New Delhi, Aug 27 (HS): Relief and rescue efforts are in full swing across landslide-affected regions of Jammu and Kashmir following days of incessant rainfall that triggered major disruptions along the Vaishno Devi route. Authorities reported that electricity and water supplies have been restored in key towns including Jammu and Udhampur, as normalcy gradually returns.

Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, briefed the media on Wednesday, assuring that the situation is being closely monitored, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally keeping track of developments. “Operations are being carried out on a war footing, and nearly 30–35% of the restoration work has already been completed,” Dr. Singh said, adding that arrangements are being made to safely move stranded travelers. Train services to Katra remain suspended as precautionary measures.

While rainfall intensity has eased across the Jammu division—except in Poonch and Rajouri districts—the Chenab river continues to flow close to the danger mark, keeping officials on high alert. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the region has just experienced its heaviest rainfall in nine years.

Dr. Singh emphasized that despite the challenges, timely forecasts helped authorities prepare, and the Prime Minister’s direct oversight is serving as a “great source of reassurance and motivation” for those coordinating the relief mission.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar