Huriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Monday visited South Kashmir to assess the damage caused by the ravaging floods to life, public property, crops, business establishments and other infrastructure.While taking stock of the collapsed houses, damaged crops, washed away roads, non availability of electricity and drinking water, Mirwaiz expressed his regret over the inability of government to look after the needs of flood hit victims.
Mirwaiz, who visited Kulgam, Bijbehara, Nai basti Islamabad, Kalamgund Islamabad, Ahrigatan Kulgam, and Janglat mandi and adjoining areas expressed his profound grief over the loss of life and property in these areas due to devastating floods. He appealed people to be patient and courageous to deal with the emergency situation. Mirwaiz stated that the local resources were extremely meager to deal with the devastation caused by the floods. He stated that hurriyat was constantly appealing international community to come forward and benevolently donate so that steps are taken for relief and rehabilitation of the flood victims of Kashmir.
While distributing the relief goods sent by Dar-ul-Khairat Mirwaiz Manzil including blankets and eatables among people, Mirwaiz stated that every inpidual of our nation has to come forward with commitment and resolve to deal with the flood aftermath. During his visit, Mirwaiz found that 150 houses were completely collapsed in Arigatan Kulgam while as 400 houses were partially damaged. He also saw 40 families living in temporary shelters. Expressing his grief over the condition of people in these areas, Mirwaiz stressed upon the inhabitants that they should not feel alone since entire Kashmiri nation was standing along with them in these times of crisis. Stressing upon the insensitive authorities to come forward and help people to build shelters as the winter was fast approaching, Mirwaiz stated the flood victims have been left on the mercy of god. He added that state government should ensure rehabilitation of people on emergency basis. (KNS)