Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (PC) chief Sajjad Lone Saturday appealed to the prime minister Narendra Modi to take into account the extent of devastation caused by the flash floods in the state and help the beleaguered people by declaring the state of emergency.In a statement issued to KNS Sajad said, “It is time for all to close ranks and ensure that those in need are helped. We appeal to the prime minister of India to take into account the extent of devastation and help the beleaguered people. It is not beyond doubt that the state just does have the resources to tackle a natural disaster of this scale.”
“Rafting boats and other items of survival need to be airlifted and the conditions in the state demand nothing short of a state of emergency being declared,” he demanded.Expressing his solidarity and sympathies with the flood hit victims Sajad Lone said the fury of nature has exposed the lack of preparedness of the state institutions. “Despite Meteorological department having predicted heavy rainfall, the government seems to have been caught off guard and not ready to deal with a flood like situation. State Government had not taken any advance measures to deal with any such calamity,” he said.
“We express our heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. We also express our gratitude to all those state institutions who are desperately trying to tackle a disaster of demonic magnitude with very meagre resources at hand,” he said.“We also express our deep appreciation of the police, army, fire brigade and other institutions in trying to rescue the marooned people,” the PC chief added. (KNS)