IB Sets Alarm Bells Ringing in Valley; Cautions about Possible Guerrilla Strikes

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Reports coming from New Delhi suggest the guerrillas are ready to strike local politicians, jails and military installations in valley in the month of April.

As per the Intelligence Bureau report—termed and quoted as “confidential” by New Delhi-based media, “the infiltration is on the rise at the LoC and at least six terrorist outfits namely the Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Hizbul, Tahreek-e -Jehad, Al Badar and unknown Taneem, backed by the Pakistani side are on stand-by mode waiting to launch attacks.”

As per the Intel report accessed by the media outlet, guerrillas are planning multiple and major attacks in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir “to destroy the confidence of the new government”.

The report further states: “One of the most deadly outfits, the Jaish-e-Mohammed plans to target local politicians to snub the recent elections and huge voter turnout.” Amongst those in the hit list, the report says, “is Mohammad Afzal Parrey a Left leader from Kulgam, a CPM contestant who fought from Wachi named Zahoor Ahmad and one Mohammad Abbas from Tarigami.”

It is said that apart from the bigger outfits the relatively lesser known Tahreek-e -Jehad and Al Badar are also planning attacks on the security installations in Rajouri and Poonch. Poonch is said be more vulnerable to infiltration, similar to recent attacks the jail in Poonch could also be a possible terror target, the report maintains.

“There are indications that some terrorists have already succeeded in the infiltration and have vanished into hiding perhaps waiting for right time to act,” the report says. “On the LoC terrorist movements have been traced, these are militants of LeT and JM. Terrorists are eyeing vulnerable spots like Bandipore and Kupwara sector to enter. Three militants of an unknown organisation by the name of Taneem have receded and are working towards launching major attack on Bhadur post in KG sector.”

The report also gives specific names of one Gul Hadik and Mohammad Shaukat belonging to JM camping at Shahbaaz post, waiting to “wreak the havoc” by planting improvised explosive devices on Indian roads.

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Amid Downpour, Jhelum Maintains Steady Course

KL Report

SRINAGAR

At a time when downpour resumed in valley after a day’s hiatus, Jhelum continues to maintain a steady level by flowing below danger mark.

The latest gauge readings recorded at 11 am by Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Kashmir suggest the steady course of Jhelum.

At Sangam, the level of Jhelum was recorded as 11.45 ft (Status – GREEN). At Ram Munshibagh, it was 15.20 ft (Status – GREEN) and at Asham, the level was 11.58 ft (Status – GREEN).

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PDD lineman dies of electric shock

KL Report

SRINAGAR

A PDD employee was electrocuted while repairing an electric wire in Kunzar area of Tangmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Tuesday.

The Lineman Ashiq Hussain Parray, son of Abdul Aziz Parray, resident of Dobhiwan, Kunzar, received electric shock while repairing an electric line at Raram, Kunzar.

Following the incident, the locals took him to a nearby hospital in unconscious state. However, doctors present there declared him brought dead.

Police has started investigation into the matter. The body of deceased was handed over to his relatives for last rites, a police official said.

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Laden tragedy: Victims laid to rest amid sobs

KL Report

SRINAGAR

A pall of gloom descended at Laden Village in Chadoora area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district after fifteen persons including five sisters, three brothers and their parents laid to rest at their native village on Tuesday morning.

One more person identified as Fasil Ahmad, ninth children of Ghulam Nabi Hajam, is still missing.

Reports reaching GNS said that on wee hours today, three more bodies were recovered from the site where the mudslide hit four residential houses in the village on Monday.

Later tens and thousands of people participated in the joint funeral of the deceased who include among others 24 days infant and his parents.

The incident has already sent shocking waves across the Valley and most of those who participated in the funeral were seen weeping.

Pertinently, sixteen persons were killed after their houses came under mudslide at Laden villageon Monday.

Those laid to rest have been identified as eight siblings including five sisters Naseema (18) and Shugufta (15), Bisma (9), Shahida (16), Fareeda (14) and three brothers Bilal Ahmad (13), Mohammad Iqbal (12) and Reyaz Ahmad (22) and their parents Ghulam Nabi Hajam, Zaina Begium. Others include Mohammad Shaban, his wife Ruksana (21), their son Mohammad Aslam (24 days) and two sisters of Mohammad Shaban, Shehmeeza (9) and Naseema (18)(daughters of Laldin).

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Weather to improve after April 3

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The weather department Tuesday predicted moderate to heavy rain and thunder showers in Jammu and Kashmir during the next 24 hours.

According to KNS correspondent, India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared that in Srinagar on April 1, rain and thundershowers would occur while as the maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 09°C and 06°C respectively.

The weather department in its prediction has said no large change in weather during the next 24 hours while maintaining that rains would occur on April 1 and April 3 and thereafter, the weather conditions would improve.

The heavy rain forced hundreds to evacuate Srinagar, and the National Disaster Response Force was sent to the region to help with the serious situation.

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My name nowhere in 2013 Kishtwar communal violence: Sajad Kitcloo

KL Report

SRINAGAR

As BJP has been demanding arrest of former MoS Home Sajad Kitcloo for his alleged involvement in 2013 Kishtwar communal violence, Kitcloo on Tuesday said allegations levelled against him are ‘farce and fabricated’

Talking to KNS, NC leader and former Minister of State for Home Kitchloo said, “Frustration of the BJP has compelled it to raise voice against me and allegations being levelled are incorrect.”

Kitchloo was dropped from Omar Abdullah ministry over the allegations in connection with the riots but was re-inducted after an interim report of the Commission in December 2013 exonerated him.

On 9 August 2013 communal clashes broke out after Eid prayers resulting in death of four people, injuries to over 80 people and burning down of a large number of houses and vehicles.

“BJP wants to play the communal card again in the state. As I am only Muslim face in the region, the repeated attacks of BJP against me vindicate that they want to exploit the situation,” Kitchloo claimed.

He claimed that nowhere in the report, his name has been indicted and what BJP is doing at present is ‘utterly shameful’. “Saffron party is trying to fan the communal fires again in the region for the petty political gains. We want to reiterate that no one in the state will be allowed to exploit the sentiments of the innocent people. What BJP is doing is a mere drama to grab headlines but their nefarious designs will never get fulfilled on ground,” Kitchloo said.

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Exams as per schedule: KU

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The University of Kashmir Tuesday informed the exams scheduled after March 31 shall be held as per schedule.

Talking to KNS, Controller Examinations University of Kashmir Professor Abdul Salam said no exams have been postponed and the same scheduled after March 31 shall be held on time. “No we have not postponed any examinations on university level. Exams will be held as per the schedule,” he said.

Earlier, in view of the heavy rains in Kashmir Valley that triggered landslides and flood like situation, authorities postponed all Board as well as University exams scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.

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Schools to remain shut on April 1: Minister

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The government on Tuesday decided to extend the closure of schools in Kashmir valley for further one day in view of the incessant rains and flood like situation.

Education Minister Naeem Akhtar told KNS that in view of the weather forecast, government has decided to close the schools for one more day. Pertinently, the state authorities on Sunday had decided to close all educational institutes up to 8th class for two days in view of incessant rains and a flood-like situation in Srinagar and adjoining areas.

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No need to go for Kandizal breach: Drabu

KL Report

SRINAGAR

State Government Tuesday said the water levels in river Jehlum was under control and there seems no need to breach Kandizal embankment to divert flood waters.

Minister for Finance Haseeb Drabu told KNS that the government is examining the options to tackle the flood situation, if it arrives, based on the prediction of the weather department. “At present, the water level is not worrying and there seems no need to go for the Kandizal breach and divert the flow of waters,” Drabu said.

Kandizal embankment and its flood basin spanning across south west suburbs, provide a supplementary way out to Jhelum before it enters into the City where the river course considerably narrows down amid dense inhabitation on the two sides.

The Kandizal breach waters after flowing through areas like Kanihama, Pohru and Lasjan flood basins finally empty into Ram Bagh spill channel.

“What the government at present is examining is the situation that would emerge if it rains again. We have already alerted all services and kept on toes all the official machinery. There were no breaches as such in the river but the situation merits close vigil and coordination to save valley from flood like situation,” Drabu told

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Drabu calls for revival of Kashmiri culture

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Minister for Finance, Culture and Employment, Dr. Haseeb Ahmad Drabu Tuesday urged all the stakeholders to defend their ethnicity and culture.

The Minister was speaking on the inaugural function of 3-day International Conference on ‘’Literary Legacy of Indo-Central Asia, Afghanistan and Iran’’ held at University of Kashmir today in collaboration with Bedil International Foundation, New Delhi.

The Minister for Finance, Dr. Haseeb Ahmad Drabu was the chief guest while as Ambassador of Turkmenistan in India, Mr. Parakhat H. Durdyev was guest of honour.

Dr. Drabu said that Kashmir has a rich and fascinating cultural heritage which needs to be revived and promoted for posterity. He underlined the need for saving the losses occurring to culture and language by regular modernization and other allied things.

The Minister said that Central Asian countries including Azarbaijan, Tajkistan and Turkmenistan subsumed their rich cultural ethos. He said that since Kashmir’s and Central Asian countries share many cultural similarities and both need to make joint effort to preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage. He called for encouraging people to people contact between these countries to exchange the richness of culture and language.

Dr. Drabu lamented the loss of ethnic and cultural moorings of Kashmiris who are losing a bit of their culture every day by being driven by hunger for modernizing their everyday life. He said that we are fast losing our language and culture which is our identity as an ethnic group and great nations never sacrifice their culture at the altar of trends.

The function was attended by various renowned dignitaries of neighbouring countries and other states of the country, besides a galaxy of scholars, social scientists and intellectuals.

The welcome address was delivered by Director of Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS), Prof. G. N. Khaki, while key note address was delivered by former Vice Chancellor Az-Zahra University, Iran, Prof. Hakimeh Dabiran besides Presidential remarks were given by Dean Academic Affairs, Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Wani and special address were given by Director Academy Sciences, Tajikistan, Prof. Mirzo Mulloahmad and Chairman Bedil International Foundation, New Delhi, Mr. Mohammad Shafi Pandit.

Later, the Minister released four books regarding Central Asian Studies.

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Water Receding; Sangam at 8 am was 17 ft, Ram Munshi Bagh 18.50 ft

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Water Level in Jehlum that had touched the flood level at Sangam and Ram Munshi Bagh is continuously showing a declining trend from Monday noon.

As per the hourly readings by the Flood Control Department, the water level at 8 Am at Sangam was 17.00 feet, at Ram- Munshi Bagh 18.50 feet and Asham 12.75 feet.

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Water level receding; At 11pm Sangam was 19.55 ft, Ram Munshi Bagh 19.40 ft

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Water Level in Jehlum that had touched the flood level at Sangam and Ram Munshi Bagh is continuously showing a declining trend.

As per the hourly readings by the Flood Control Department, the water level at 11.00 PM at Sangam was 19.55 feet( orange), at Ram- Munshi Bagh 19.40 feet (red) and Asham 12.75 feet (green).

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Water level receding: At 9pm Sangam was 20 ft, Ram Munshi Bagh 19.55 ft

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Water Level in Jehlum that had touched the flood level at Sangam and Ram Munshi Bagh is showing a declining trend.

As per the hourly readings by the Flood Control Department, the water level at 9.00 PM at Sangam was 20.00 feet( orange), at Ram- Munshi Bagh 19.55 feet (red) and Asham 12.66 feet.

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Mufti condoles death of 6 persons, sanctions ex gratia to NoK

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has expressed grief over burying alive of six persons in a house collapse at village Laden in Chadoora in Budgam district Monday, following incessant rains that have lashed Kashmir valley for the last few days.

According to official spokesman, Mufti while condoling the unfortunate deaths, sanctioned ex gratia relief in favour of the Next of Kin of those who died in the collapse. He directed the rescue team at the spot to make all out efforts to rescue the remaining trapped persons from under the debris.

The Chief Minister expressed sympathies with the bereaved families in their hour of distress and prayed for peace to the departed souls.

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Return of power projects from NHPC ‘litmus test’ for us: Mufti

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Monday termed the return of the power projects from NHPC a ‘a litmus test’ for Government’s credibility, saying he has discussed the issue at threadbare with the prime minister and modalities over the process are being looked into.

The statement of the chief minister came in the backdrop of the recent remarks by the Union Power minister citing legal and financial restrains in returns power projects to the Jammu and Kashmir state from NHPC.

Mufti while addressing the Legislative Assembly Monday reiterated that his government is committed to bring back the power projects to JK and that process for the same has started after his discussion over the issue with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi at New Delhi.

The chief minister in his detailed address to the house termed the present situation in the state ‘stable and peaceful’ while crediting the people of Jammu and Kashmir for believing in democratic principles. He also hailed the security agencies for avoiding the violent incidents and said that the crucial role played by the Jammu and Kashmir Police can in no way be ignored at ‘any level’. “They have faced threats and have suffered a lot in the past. They (JK Police) continue to endanger their lives for the safety of the state,” Mufti remarked.

He maintained that people have exercised their franchise during the recently held polls in the state and revealed to the world that they have a firm belief in the principles of democracy. “2014 elections revealed what the people of Jammu and Kashmir want. They have taken part in elections so that peace could be restored in the state at an earliest.”

While terming the Legislative Assembly as the most powerful institution in the state, the chief minister said the government would continue if efforts in restoring the credibility of the house.

While reacting to the earlier reports, Mufti said ‘JK is not a prison but a place wherein people have resolved to end their woes by believing in the institution of democracy’.

The chief minister added that to tackle the menace of rising crimes and drugs would be a great challenge besides regulating the traffic which at present is in a chaotic form. He added further that the state dispensation is mulling to introduce a policy wherein SPOs could be engaged in a police department. “The present wages of SPOs in the state is Rs 3000 a month and government has discussed the issue with the Union Home Ministry so that the wages of such men could be enhanced to Rs 6000 a month,” chief minister informed the house, besides asking police force to remain friendly with the common masses in the state.

The chief minister said the flood threat which has emerged in valley after the incessant rains is being tamed at all levels and relief and rescue operations have been already started. “It is a challenge to tackle with the situation. 2200 crores have been sanctioned by the GOI and same shall be spent for rebuilding the lives of destitute flood victims,” he said.

Terming the BJP-PDP coalition government ‘accountable and transparent’, Mufti said, “Good governance and accountability would be the top priorities of the new dispensation. We want a stable employment policy in which recruitments will be done purely on the grounds of merit under the accountable and transparent system.”

Hinting at another overhaul in the civil administration, the chief minister said the government would not allow some bad fishes to pollute the entire pond. “Corrupt officials in the state will not be allowed to make the entire administration hostage. The government is committed to strengthen the functioning of the anti- graft bodies including SAC, SVC and others.” Mufti added that the transfer policy will be thoroughly implemented in the state wherein no official shall be allowed to hold his post at a particular place for more than three years.

He said the advertisements given to newspapers will be channelized in a proper manner besides a press club being established in Srinagar.

Training guns at the arch rival National Conference, Mufti while addressing to NC general secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar said: “You sold JK bank to RBI. Sagar sahib this was the wrong decision indeed. The Bank was an institution which always had helped the state government to get out of the financial crises. You have undermined the vitality of state’s autonomy.”

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Fake facebook accounts leave Sonam Lotus fuming

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Director MeT Sonam Lotus who is a popular figure in Kashmir for providing ‘accurate’ weather updates has lodged a complaint in police station against the persons running fake facebook accounts on his name.

“I am a responsible person and a public figure and I will never dare to post messages that can offend others and neither I can mislead people by giving wrong information. Several fake facebook accounts have come up and the administrators are using my name,” Sonam Lotus told CNS.

He said that a day after flood threat loomed over Kashmir, a new fake facebook account under the name, ‘Sonam Lotus – J&K Weather’ appeared on social media wherein the user using his name was able to garner over 3,000 ‘Likes’ a day. “It doesn’t worry me at all but what is worrisome that fake user may sometimes provide wrong information abouth weather and that will be a blow to my credibility,” he said adding that people are already panicked and single wrong information may make them suffer more.

“That fake facebook user even uploaded his status in Kashmiri language knowing it well that I barely know Kashmiri. I have informed Police about the matter and I appeal all the people not to fall prey to such cheaters and furthermore I want to inform people of Kashmir that I have been running only my personal account that goes by my own name which is operational from last four to five years,” he said.

He appealed police to take the matter seriously and identify the fake users.

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Govt ‘apathy'; Lal Bazar locality under water

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Inordinate delay in improving drainage/sewage system at old Post Office Lane of Lal Bazar area is causing immense problems to residents here.

The incessant rains have caused water logging in the area while waters have reportedly started entering into several residential houses creating panic in the area.

The locals told CNS that due to defunct drainage system, slight rain causes water-logging in the area – hampering movement of pedestrians.

“Frequent water-logging has taken sheen of the area. Light rains or snowfall inundates all roads and lane,” said Idrees Ahmed, a resident here.

“People are forced to walk through water-logged roads here. We had many times apprised the concerned authorities to look into the matter, however our requests met with deaf ears,” he said adding that the water has reached to such a level that they are not able to live in their residential houses.

Meanwhile, the residents of Firdous Abad Lane 10 of Batamaloo area also alleged that incessant rains have caused water logging in the area while the administration is doing nothing to de-water the locality. “The dewatering pump is lying in the area which has no fuel,” said a resident.

The residents of the both localities appealed their concerned legislators and administration to take immediate steps for de-watering.

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Govt orders continuance of prepaid mobile services for two more years

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Amid threat of floods, there is good news for prepaid mobile subscribers of Jammu and Kashmir. Government of India Monday decided to give the nod for continuance of pre-paid services for two more years from April 1, 2015.

Besides Jammu and Kashmir, the order would also be implemented in North East states of India.

Pertinently the the licence of the telecom operators for providing prepaid services in these areas expires on March 31, 2015.

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NC lashes out at Mufti for statement on compensation

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Taking a dig at Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, National Conference Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani Monday said that CM has made mockery of the people’s miseries.

Reacting to the statement of CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in which he had said that “We’ll try to provide compensation to non-insured people who have been affected by flood”, Nasir said that CM has ditched all those traders and people affected by the floods. “This is a sheer mockery of the people’s miseries by the Government. Compensation to those affected in the floods should be provided to everyone, not considering whether the flood victims were insured or not,” Nasir said in a statement issued here.

He said this statement of Mufti Sayed has also punctured the much hyped slogans of the PDP made during elections in which they had promised the compensation to all of those affected by the September floods

“This is the reason why we had sought the Rs 44,000 crore package from the central government. We wanted to provide the compensation to each and every soul affected by the floods. Not all businesses can be restarted again with the insurance money. They have to start it from zero,” Nasir said. He said it seems that the PDP led coalition government has given a cold shoulder to the relief package and nothing is coming out these days about the package.

“The government is just doing the lip service over the issue. A much needed relief package seems a dream for the people of state as nothing much has been done about it by the PPD. They didn’t even discuss or mentioned it in the budget,” he said adding “the statements from the government over the flood relief package look vague and hollow.”

Meanwhile, Nasir also condoled the heartrending incident of Budgam in which seventeen people were buried alive in a landslide in Budgam district. He said the government should have taken appropriate measures well on time so that such incidents could be stopped.

“Our local MLA from Budgam had raised this incident just yesterday that there are apprehensions of landslides in Budgam, had the government paid heed to his worries, may be the lives could have been saved,” Nasir said.

He expressed deep shock over the incident and urged the government to provide compensation to all those killed in today’s incident.

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Missing police officer’s body fished out from Sindh River

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Body of a missing Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of Jammu and Kashmir Police was fished out from River Sindh in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district here.

A police official told GNS that the body of ASI Muhammad Shafi Parray, resident of Wasun in the district, who had gone missing on March 26 last week, was fished out by the joint rescue teams of SDRF and police at Wusan in Kangan.

Eyewitness told GNS that SPO Reyaz Ahmad (belt no. 452/Gbl) under the supervision of SI Imtiyaz from Gutlibagh police post jumped into the river and recovered the body of the deceased.

As reported earlier, the police officer was posted at Budgam district and was absent from last one year. He, according to sources, was suspended by the department.

Official sources informed that injury marks were found on the police officer’s head and police are investigating the matter.

Earlier, the relatives of the deceased had staged massive protests after the officer went missing.

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Geelani writes to Pak PM

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani Monday appealed Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Nawaz Sharif to play a role of facilitator between Saudi Arabia and Iran and try to call a meeting of the heads of the organization of the Muslim countries (OIC) to find a respectable solution to the Yemen conflict.

“Instead of becoming the part of the unholy war, Pakistan should play a vital role of a mediator. Pakistan should play a leading role in the Muslim world and it is only possible when the foreign policies of this country are made liberal and free from the American influence,” Geelani said in a statement to KNS.

In a letter sent to the Pakistan PM, he said, “The situation in Iraq, Syria and Now Yemen is concern for the Muslims of the world and Pakistan government can play a very vital role in this serious situations and their intervention can change these situations in favor of the Muslims. Pakistan is a unique Muslim country of the world created in the name of Islam and the foreign policy of this should be favorable to the collective interests of the Muslim Ummah. Creation of a strong Muslim Block and reconciliation of all the big and small disputes between them should be the priority of the foreign policies of the Pakistan.”

“First requirement of this bold character is the friendship and cooperation of the neighboring Muslim countries especially Afghanistan and Iran which it can’t be ignored in any case. The relation of Pakistan with these two Muslim countries has not remained too good so far. The foreign policy of Pakistan has been inclined towards the far-off America instead of the neighboring country Soviet Union for which this country paid a huge price in the past and the current friendship of America is also adding to the sufferings of the Pakistan,” Geelani said.

The Hurriyat (G) chairman said that the relation with America whether good or bad is in no way good for any one and the disorder and “the instability prevailing in the Muslim World at this time is the creation of this country.”

“Bad relation with Iran is also proving costly for the Pakistan and it not only creates problems at the foreign levels but it also impacts the internal situations of this country. Any involvement of the Pakistan in the Yemen war will cost his image in the Muslim block and this war will bring Pakistan face-to-face with the neighboring Islamic country Iran and it will also increase the internal disturbances of this country,” he said.

Geelani in his brief letter raised the point that Pakistan should not only remain neutral in this unholy war but should play a vital role of mediator between the Muslim countries and try to eliminate all the differences between them.

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LC Passes Resolution on Return of NHPC Projects

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Upper House of state legislature Monday passed a resolution on return of power projects from National Hydro Power Projects. The resolution was moved by the opposition National Conference.

NC member Qaiser Jamshed Lone had moved a resolution in the Council, “this house resolves that all the power projects be returned by NHPC to state government.”

Minister Abdul Haq Khan, on the behalf of Minister Incharge for Power, replying to Lone’s resolution, said that it is mentioned in the power budget of Minister of Finance that the government would actively pursue transfer of power projects from NHPC and budget provide funds for meeting the operation and maintenance cost of such power projects to be transferred from NHPC.

However, unsatisfied by the reply of the government, Lone took a dig at PDP-BJP government for putting up transfer of power projects from NHPC to state in their agenda of alliance government.

“On one side, they are claiming that they will bring back the power projects from NHPC to state but on the other hand side, the central government have replied to a question of PDP MP Tariq Hamid Qarra’s question that these cannot be transfer in view of legal and financial problems,” he said.

Hitting back at Lone’s statement, PDP member Firdous Tak said that it was NC who sold the power projects as well as the interest of people of Jammu and Kashmir to NHPC, triggering verbal duels between NC and PDP members in the House.

On this, member Jehngir Mir who was in the Chair asked the two sides to pacify and take their seats as Minister wants to reply.

“It was NC who sold these power projects without even thinking for the interest of people of J&K. Who was in the government for past so many years in the state. Who gave away these projects to NHPC without even entering into MoU,” Khan added.

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Mufti Meets Business Community at Lal Chowk

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in Lal Chowk

Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed Monday visited Lal Chowk and adjacent areas where he met the traders whose shops were facing threat of inundation due to drainage failure following incessant rains in the area.

The dewatering has since been completed and the waterlogged roads have been restored in the business hub of the city, an official statement said Monday afternoon.

“Interacting with the trading community, Mufti Sayeed said that he has made on-the-spot assessment and the government will take all steps required to prevent water-logging following continuous rains,” the statement said.

He said that the government will also start next month distribution of relief among and rehabilitation of the flood-affected people in a three-phased manner.

“Those small-time businessmen, traders and destitute who don’t have any insurance cover will be taken up in the first phase,” he said and added he has taken an assessment particularly in terms of preparedness to face the emerging situation.

Sayeed who had air dashed to Srinagar yesterday following the heavy rains personally supervised the Government’s efforts throughout the night and directed setting up of camps at safe places for people of affected areas in case of emergency and if need be.

“During the review meeting held last evening, the Chief Minister had issued instructions to press into service all de-watering pumps in Srinagar city to clear the inundated areas. Lal Chowk was also inundated yesterday, but after the dewatering pumps have been used uninterruptedly, the roads in and around the business hub have been cleared of water logging,” the statement said.

Minister for Finance, Dr. Haseeb A Drabu, Minister for Public Works, Syed Altaf Bukhari and Minister of State for H&UDD Mohammad Ashraf Mir, besides Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, DC Srinagar and Chief Engineer I&FC, Kashmir were also present on the occasion.

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Doctors, remain on duty!

KL Report

SRINAGAR

All the doctors/paramedics and other employees of SKIMS have been asked to remain on duty to combat any emergency situation emerging out of looming flood threat.

“Director SKIMS has asked all doctors/ paramedics and other employees of SKIMS to remain on duty to cater patient rush from flood prone areas and to combat any emergent situation,” SKIMS spokesperson Kulsoom Bhat said on Moday afternoon.

“Dr S A Zargar has directed all staff members including doctors and paramedics to remain stationed at the hospital to cater any emergency situation,” she added.

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Rajnath Speaks to Mufti, Mukhtar Abbas in Srinagar

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Monday spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed on phone over the Kashmir floods and assured full support from the Centre.

“Spoke to Jammu and Kashmir CM Shri Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today who apprised me of the flood situation in the state,” Tweeted Rajnath Singh.

He further wrote on the Microsoft blogging site, “The Centre has already rushed two teams of NDRF to flood affected areas of J&K. We will provide all possible assistance to the state.”

Meanwhile, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi arrived in Srinagar and held a meeting with state ministers over the situation in the state, official sources said.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said in New Delhi that the Centre will do everything to support Kashmir. “Whatever is required in terms of co-ordination, material or financial support will be sent immediately,” Rijiju said.

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No need for Army assistance as of now: Govt

KL Report

SRINAGAR

In wake of looming flood situation in valley, the state government Monday made it clear that it has no plans to call out the army for assisting civil administration to tackle the floods.

“We have the disaster management in place,” said Naeem Akhtar, “and our administration has been geared up to tackle any situation that may arise.”

The army, he said, is always on the alert.

“But, as of now we have no plans to call out the army for assisting the civilian administration to tackle the flood situation,” he continued.

Pertinently, Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh earlier in the day told JK Assembly that flood situation has been declared in the entire state following four days of heavy downpour that has caused the Jhelum river to rise above the danger level in the valley.

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‘Traditional administrative measures have been taken to combat floods’

KL Report

SRINAGAR

PDP spokesman and minister Education Naeem Akhtar Monday said there is a greater vulnerability of the embankments because many of them had been breached last time and the engineers were still trying to fill those gaps.

“But to combat the situation, boats, sandbags and a 24-hour vigil on bunds have been made available all across the valley,” he said.

Akhtar said that the present dispensation has tried to learn from the last year’s disaster and the flood control and flood management regime has been activated which is a traditional practice in Kashmir.

“Traditional wisdom and traditional administrative measures are been taken,” he said. “The flood control committees have been established in all the three, north, south and central regions of the valley. Boats and sand bags have been organised.”

The minister said that authorities have been trying to plug wherever there is a report of Jhelum having over flown a couple of places.

“But, that is a minor worry,” he said. “The major worry would be if, god forbids, there is a breach, which we are trying to prevent,” he added.

Earlier in the day, the state government had issued a flood warning.

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Omar prays against the return of September floods

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The former JK chief minister Omar Abdullah who made no peace with September floods last year by admitting it as one of his setbacks as chief minister Monday hoped and prayed against the return of September floods.

“It is true that water of river Jhelum has crossed the danger mark,” he said. “But, there is a huge difference in the water levels of September and now.”

I hope and pray, he said, that we don’t have to face the same situation we faced in September.

“Till now there is no loss to communication and the roads are open,” he continued. “The same officers who helped in September are doing it today as well. From the lessons learnt in September we can act better today.”

I would appeal, he said, to take help of experience of all the officers who helped in September floods.

“Even if some of them have retired, their experience can be of great help,” he said.

Earlier in the day, the state government has issued a flood warning following incessant rainfall resulting in rise in water level of Jhelum River.

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Mufti assures compensation to flood-hit

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Monday said his government will provide compensation to all those affected by flood situation in Kashmir.

In his first public statement on the floods, Mufti assured: “We will compensate all the victims affected due to the floods.”

With our efforts, he said, the situation will soon return to normal.

“I sincerely hope the situation will improve from today,” he said.

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Jhelum getting dangerous at several places: Dy CM

KL Report

JAMMU

Deputy Chief Minister, Dr Nirmal Singh immediately after the Legislative Assembly started its business at 10 A.M on Monday informed the House that water level in Jhelum at several places has crossed the flood alert level and most of the Nallahs in the valley are flowing with high and increasing discharge. He also presented district wise details of the areas inundated due to incessant rain and over flowing of Nallahs.

The Deputy Chief Minister informed the House that 3 control rooms have already been set up with Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed along with team of Ministers personally monitoring the whole situation in the valley and supervising the administrative response to safeguard life and property of people.

He also informed the House that some persons have been feared caught in land sinking incident in Chadoora, Budgam adding that Deputy Commissioner along with team has rushed to the spot and rescue operation is on.

He said Government shall also be informing the House about situation in Jammu province as soon as report is received in this regard.

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PM Modi sends high level team to assess flood situation of JK

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has deputed high level Central team headed by Union Minister Mukhtar Abas Naqvi to Jammu and Kashmir to access the flood situation.

“The team headed by the Union Minister Mukhtar Abas Naqvi , sent by the PMO office is on the way to Jammu and Kashmir to review the situation on ground. The team is scheduled to meet the Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed here,” official sources said.

They said that a detailed report of the current situation will be made before the central team by the officials of the state government.

“Sector wise assessment of any losses and the steps taken by the state government for any eventuality by flood will be discussed with the state officials,” sources said and added that the team will also visit various flood-affected districts in both Kashmir and Jammu regions before leaving to New Delhi.

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Jhelum levels reduce rising pace

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Flowing slightly over the flood levels, Jhelum has started showing signs of change. With the rains stopping in plains of Kashmir, the river is increasing its level quite slowly as compared to the massive increase during night.

Irrigation & Flood Control officials said the net increase in the water level in last one hours is merely 0.10 ft which is nearly half of the earlier hours. During the night till three AM, when the water level touched the Danger mark, the Jehlum waters were rising by almost 6 inches an hour. Afterwards there was a gradual deceleration in the pace of rising levels.

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Flood Declared In Srinagar

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr Farooq A Lone said they have declared flood situation in Srinagar as the water level in Jhelum reached 17.90 ft at 3 am. The level at Sangham is barely 1.5 ft from the danger mark, a position beyond floods.

While the raining has temporarly stopped in central Kashmir, it is heavily snowing in south Kashmir, reports said.

Officials saud there has not been any breach anywhere in Jhelum, especially in Srinagar.

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Amid downpour people take their vehicles to safer places

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Amid downpour and dead of the night when people living in flood susceptible areas are busy in shifting their belongings to first and second floors, the men mostly youth are out on roads busy in parking their vehicles at safer places.

According to reports the roadside in areas which by and large remained dry in last year’s deluge, people are coming from various areas to park their vehicles in these areas.

Ajaz Ahmad, who lives in Bemina whille talking to Kashmir Life just now was on way to his brother’s place in Ahmad Nagar. Ajaz during day has shifted his belongings left untouched by flood last year to his newly constructed second storey. Now as he sense that situation may turn adverse, he has decided to shift his car.

He further said that on his way he found numerous vehicles on roadside kept by inhabitants of flood prone areas.

Pertinently during last year deadly flood, the vehicles were in the list of worst hit.

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Next 24 Hours Crucial, Says Officers

KL Report

SRINAGAR

North India’s wettest March in 100 years is playing crucial to Srinagar that has a looming flood threat. Officials say they are doing whatever could be done but have kept their fingers crossed.

“The next 24 hours are crucial”, a senior officer said. “Given the pace with which the water is flowing down, the levels will cross flood mark early Monday and most possibly the danger mark later in the afternoon.” This calculation, he said, is based on the pace of surge that the Jhelum recorded during the whole day on Subday.

Water flow in south and central Kashmir is barely 1.5 ft below the flood mark which would get breached in next six hours.

The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the people living in low lying areas and the belts that severely suffered last year should stay careful and move out of the danger’s path. “God willing, if nothing happens, they can return as early as possible”, he said.

Another senior official said the administration will ensure that the city stays safe. It may intervene in Jhelum at some level after the surge goes beyond the flood level.

A middle rung field officer said they have used nearly 5000 sand bags on weaker embankment spots and are in the process of using many more as and when required. He said the temporary restoration of the September breaches still kacks compaction that usually takes a slightly longer time.

Authorities have already alerted SDRF and NDRF and they will be deployed in anticipation in vulnerable areas Monday morning. Besides, the officials have started hiring shikara boats and during the night nearly 20 trucks carrying the boats would leave for South Kashmir. In Srinagar, one boat has been kept at the disposal of each police station and the numbers will be augmented as and when required.

Interestingly, the boat owners had refused offering boats to government saying they are still unpaid for the services rendered during September. Finance Minister Dr Haseeb Drabu is reported to have settled the issue by announcing to release their dues early Monday morning.

Meanwhile authorities are facing a daunting task of managing water logging. Though most of the 70 fixed pumps, 50 mobile pumps and scores of fire tendrers are in operation, it is still a massive job. The problem is that the rains are getting more water to low lying areas than the capavity of these pumps. Though these pumps work efficiently when power is on, their capacity goes down when operated on alternative currents. Besides, Srinagar city lacks adequate number of pumps given the areas suffering from water logging.

Authorities repaired some of the pumps after last year floods but it is not known if any additions were made. All the giant water pumps that ONGC had driven to Sri agar post floods were taken back.

Met Office predictions suggest raining for three more days which adds to the crisis around. South Kashmir is experiencing massive rains and all the streams and rivulets are roaring at ferocious levels.

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It is going to hit danger mark at Sangam and Rammunshi bagh before mid-night:: Dr Romsho

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Taking dig at government, Dr Shakil Romsho, expert in earth sciences and glaciers Sunday evening posted on his fb wall that ‘govt. officials are shying away from giving the correct information.’

In his message he cautioned people not to be complacent and take necessary precautionary measures, “notwithstanding the pronouncements on part of the official machinery, we can’t afford to be complacent about the looming threat of flood in Kashmir,” he posted.

Dr Romsho also predicted that, “It is going to hit danger mark at Sangam and Rammunshi bagh tonight before mid-night.”

He further said that, “I am afraid that the incessant rains together with the failure of the dilapidated flood control infrastructure might exacerbate the flood scenario in Kashmir valley. We may have to face a low magnitude flood this week or soon after, inundating the traditional Jhelum floodplains including those in the Srinagar city.”

He believes that, “If we are lucky this week, the probability of such a flood shall increase with every passing day till September this year. This is primarily due to very high groundwater levels all over the Kashmir valley attributed to last year’s extreme flooding and the wet March.”

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Admin open doors of EDI Pampore, Sanat Nagar Marriage Hall for people to stay

KL Report

SRINAGAR

In wake of the incessant rains and forecast for more downpour, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr Farooq Ahmad Lone has appealed people living adjacent to river banks to move towards safer places.

In his appeal Dr Farooq Lone said that there is no need to panic as the the water is still two feet below the prescribed level.

While talking about the people who don’t have option to stay, Dr Lone said, “for those who have no place to go, we have kept open Sanant Nagar Marriage Hall and EDI Pampore for them”.

He further said that all arrangements have been kept in place there, and also informed that administration was alive to the situation and all measures required to deal with situation have been put in place.

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Jehlum flows above 16.5 ft at Ram Munshi Bagh

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The situation seems to get difficult as the Jehlum is flowing above 16.5 ft at Srinagar’s Ram Munshi Bagh.

According to reports, people living in vulnerable areas of Rambagh, Lasjan, Mahjoor Nagar, Kursoo Rajbagh, Barzulla, Bemina and other adjoining areas are on toes.

The loud speakers of Masjids are on asking people to shift family to safe places and also shift ground floor material to first or second floor.

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Between Mufti And Floods: A Two Foot Mark

KL Report

Srinagar

Regardless of its visible and effective presence in Srinagar, Mufti Sayeed led government took a long time in deciding its next course of action. A senior minister told in TV that “technically” there is danger of floods but “officially” it is not! Another minister, this one from BJP in Jammu, said the opposition was behind the panic that news media was reporting.

The fact is that the level of surging Jhelum has crossed the ‘alarm’ level at Sangam in Islamabad and Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar. This level is barely two feet less than the mark when the floods are formally declared. That is the net difference, right now, between the September 2014 and the March 2015, the two eras managed by two regimes.

Status of the gauge released by the Irrigation and Flood Control Department at 9 pm suggests that the river was flowing at 18 ft at Sangam and 16 ft at RamMunshi Bagh. Given the gradual pace with which the river level increased during the day, it is clear that this night is going to be the main game changer.

For the whole day, authorities were reassuring people that they should not panic. But given the warning that it is going to rain for some more days, authorities needed to be slightly realistic also. Reports from south kashmir suggest all the rivulets are flowing ferociously devastating whatever comes in their way. All this water eventually finds its exit into the Jhelum and has to pass through the city. They relied heavily on statistics and skipped conventional wisdom.

At 9 pm, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr Farooq A Lone informed Kashmir Life about the decision that the government has taken – stay safe by skipping getting near the water bodies, shift out the aged and frail.

How will people move out of their homes right now when most of the city Is water logged? Where will they go right now? Had this announcement been made slightly earlier, it would have been easier and better? But that is something that will now be debated by the politicians within and outsude the state assembly for a long time.

Given the sutuation that is arising out of the situation, right now the onus lies on civil society. The youth must get ready to face the situation and officials must ensure all cooperation to the bravehearts to manage the mess that looks more imminent now.

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Avalanche warning

KL Report

SRINAGAR

According to a communication received from the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, an avalanche warning exists for next 24 hours from March 29 to March 30, 2015 in the avalanche prone areas of Kulgam, Pulwama, Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Ganderbal and Kargil districts.

In view of the above, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam, Pulwama, Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Ganderbal and Kargil districts are requested to advise people not to venture in avalanche prone areas during above mentioned period. During heavy snowfall, people are advised not to occupy and temporarily evacuate those locations which are under fall line of avalanches.

The concerned Deputy Commissioners are asked to take all precautionary measures so as to avert any untoward incident.

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Rains to continue for next 48-hours: IMD

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The Central Metrological Department Sunday while predicting continuous rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir for next 48 hours said they have alerted Jammu and Kashmir government about the landslides and flash floods in vulnerable areas.

Talking to KNS over phone from New Delhi Dr Laxman Singh Rathore, DGM Indian MeT department said Jammu and Kashmir will experience continuous rains for next 48 hours.“ There will be rains generally in the state including the catchment area of Jhelum in next 48 hours. There is also possibility of some snow in hilly area of the state,” he said.

According to Rathore the sudden change in weather was caused by two western disturbances. “Such sudden change occurred due to two western disturbances. With the first change, the rain will continue for next 48 hours. And from April 3 the rain will start again and there are also chances of cold wind, cloudburst, thunderstorm and even snowfall in hilly areas,” he said and added that they have alerted the state government.

Asked if there is any possibility of September like floods Rathore said, “I cannot say if floods will strike the valley again or not. Our job was to alert the State government. Now it is their job to monitor the flood situation.”

It is pertinent to mention here that the State Metrological department had also warned of landslides and flash floods in several parts of Kashmir valley, especially around the Srinagar-Jammu highway till April 4.

Though authorities Sunday agreed that some low-lying areas witnessed water logging, they maintain that the situation is under control. However, the incessant rainfall has created flood panic in Srinagar and other parts of valley, and forced people of low lying areas to shift towards the safer zones.

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We are alert, no need to panic; says DC Sgr

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Authorities Sunday maintained there is no danger of floods in Srinagar city, saying the water in the Jhelum is flowing much below the alarming level.

Talking to KNS Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Farooq Ahmad Lone Sunday said there is no need to panic as the water in the Jhelum is flowing much below alert level. “The water logging which has taken place in many areas of the city is due to the incessant rains and blockage of drains. We have started work for dewatering. We have put many dewatering pumps into the service,” he said.

The DC added that the authorities have already put in place all the necessary measures. “Authorities are ready to face the challenges thrown by the inclement weather. The water levels at Sangam, Ram Munshibagh and Asham are not alarming at the moment and there is no panic situation at all,” he said.

Lone added that government has sent a team of ministers to Srinagar which is monitoring the situation closely. “Besides the other measures a special control room has been set up at Police Control Room (PCR) Srinagar to monitor the situation round the clock. People should contact on 2452138 or 2474040 in case of any eventuality,” the DC added.

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Amnesty granted to 1811 stone pelters

KL Report

SRINAGAR

While replying to a question of National Conference member Ali Mohammad Sagar in the Legislative Assembly on Sunday, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said Jammu and Kashmir government has granted amnesty to 1811 stone pelters in the state.

“1811 persons involved in stone pelting incidents have been granted amnesty under amnesty scheme 2011,” he said.

The chief minister said that as on March 2015, 37 persons are detained under Public Safety Act (PSA) in various jails. “Out of these, 17 are locals and 20 foreigners. Of the 17 locals, two are local militants, four over- ground workers, three stone-pelters, five timber smugglers, two habitual criminals and one separatist,” he said.

“No prisoner from J&K has been deputed for lodgement under PSA in jails outside the state,” Mufti said.

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Bemina’s Hamdania Colony inundated

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Bemina’s Hamdania Colony has been inundated as water from channel in the area has breached in.

Though the panic wasn’t rampant in the area, but many predict the ugly situation, if the downpour continues.

Pertinently, in last year’s September flood as well, Hamdania Colony was the worst hit.

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‘We Are Worried Over Weak Embankment’, Officer

KL Report

SRINAGAR

An officer associated with the water-logging management in the city said their worry is not that the surging river will overflow the embankments but the weak treatments to the September 2014 breaches may give in and create a crisis.

“We had been telling the Irrigation & Flood Control department to take care of the massive breaches on the two banks of the river for all these months,” an officer speaking on the condition of anonymity said. “We had been arguing that the water level in the river usually remains manageable till March and these breaches must be taken care of during this period as levels will go up with spring, but it was not taken seriously.”

There has been some temporary restoration but the quality of these interventions is weak. Some have already started giving in. In fact, there has been a minor breach somewhere near Bemina and the officials are busy plugging it. The high volumes that the river is coming down with can damage the temporary fillings of the September breaches especially in the heart of the city and around Sonawar.

They said their attention is divided between two fronts – water logging and embankment supervision. Most of the city is water logged as drainage systems are reportedly clogged.

Jhelum is flowing down steadily but surely with higher volumes. The gauge statistics released by the Irrigation and Flood Control Department at 3 pm, suggest the Sangam was at 14.25 ft, Ram Munishi Bagh at 13.90 ft and Asham at 8.75 ft. Tension is visible in area of Mehjoor Nagar, Raj Bagh, Kursoo and even in Lal Chowk and Bemina. There are rumours flying around on the other side of Pampore too.

Chief Minister Mufti Sayeed who flew from Delhi to Srinagar with Dr Haseeb Drabu joined his four ministers. They, however, refused to interact with the media, so far.

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Weather Gets Romantic In Jammu

KL Report

JAMMU

As massive rains are lashing Jammu, the winter capital, the temperature has gone down and people have reopened their winter wardrobes. Most of the city stays indoors as roads are mostly deserted, especially in the uptown belts.

At one point of time, it was pitch dark in the afternoon for almost half an hour.

The rains have inundated most of the roads but a better drainage set up is not impacting movement, by and large.

The secretariat and most of the departments linked with law, parliamentary affairs ministry, and the Chief Minister’s office are functioning. The assembly was in session but a number of lawmakers returned home early.

Jammu being an industrious city is religiously observing holidays especially Sunday when people stay off their jobs. But owing to weather conditions, the small section of population that usually is around is not seen outdoors.

The highway to Srinagar is closed and not-so-many passengers stranded in the city are putting up with relatives and the hotels.

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221 Families shifted to safer places in Budgam

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjura Sunday informed in the Legislative Assembly that due to the continuous downpour various areas of the district Budgam have been affected by way of land erosion and landslides as the district comprises mainly of Karewa land.

Replying to apprehensions expressed by the Mian Altaf Ahmed about flood threat looming large, due to landslides in Budgam, Hanjura said that District Administration has taken immediate steps to evacuate the affected families where the residential houses were affected or likely to be affected by the land erosion and landslides to avoid any loss of life. He said the families have been lodged in tents provided by the District Administration and in some cases the affected families were shifted to nearby schools and other government buildings.

The Minister said that free ration @ 10 kg (rice) per family has been provided to the affected families besides it has also been ensured that all basis amenities are provided to the affected families. He said District Administration under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner is taking stock of the situation and taking all the necessary measures to avoid any loss of life and to provide basic amenities to the affected families. He said so far no loss has taken place.

The Minister said that 221 families of Chillan Chotinar, Tilsara, Charar-e-Sharief, Nilnag Nagam, Watkloo, Ladden, Bringan, Nego, Hangoo Suresyar, Kumar Mohalla Nagam, Freswar Khansahib, Shalinar Khansahib, Kristwar Chadoora, Suresyar and Branwar villages evacuated. Out of these 99 families have been provided with tents, 58 families have been shifted to Government buildings and 64 families have shifted to their relatives.

The Minister said the District Administration is monitoring the situation very closely and all possible help is being rendered to the affected families. Moreover, all the vulnerable areas are being monitored so that there is no loss of life and in case of any eventuality; immediate rescue operation shall be undertaken. He said the matter has also been taken up with the Geology and Mining Department so as to obtain expert advice on stabilizing the eroding/sliding land and to provide a permanent lasting solution to the problems.

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Adm alert in wake of heavy rains: MoS Flood Control

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Minister of State for Public Health Engineering, Irrigation and Flood Control Abdul Majid Paddar Sunday said that there is no flood threat in Kashmir Valley at the moment adding that the water logging has taken place due to incessant rains and blockage of drains in Srinagar city.

“People need not to worry as government has already put in place necessary measures and situation is being reviewed minute by minute,” he added

The Minister was briefing media here today about the situation arisen in Valley due to heavy rains.

Paddar said that the government is ready to face the challenges thrown by the inclement weather. He said that water levels at Sangam, Ram Munshibagh and Asham are not alarming at the moment and there is no panic situation at all.

The Minister of State said that Chief Minister has proceeded to Srinagar, besides a team of senior Ministers is also stationed at Srinagar who are monitoring the situation closely.

Paddar said that a special control room has been set up at Police Control Room (PCR) Srinagar to monitor the situation round the clock. He appealed the people to contact on 2452138 or 2474040 in case of any eventuality. He said that the divisional and district administration is keeping close vigil on the situation.

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BOSE, KU postpones exams due to bad weather

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The heavy rains in Kashmir Valley that continued since last evening triggered landslides and flood like situation and thus forced authorities to postpone all the board as well as Kashmir University exams scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.

“12 class exams which was scheduled for Monday (March 30) has been postponed due to bad weather and fresh date will be announced separately”, Secretary BOSE, Veena Pandita said.

Meanwhile, Kashmir University has also postponed all exams scheduled for March 30 and March 31.

“All the Kashmir University examinations which were scheduled for Monday and Tuesday were postponed due to inclement weather,” Controller Examinations Abu Salam said.

Fresh dates for these examinations shall be notified separately, he said.

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Flash Floods: Four Culverts Reportedly Washed Away

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Massive rains in the upper reaches have caused massive increase in water levels in south and parts of north Kashmir and in certain areas the physical connectivity stands lost.

Reports from south Kashmir’s Kulagm belt said massive discharge in Veshu nulla has taken away the diversion at Brazloo disconnecting Qazgund from Kulgam. The main bridge has been rendered redundant and unsafe by the September floods.

Another report from south Kashmir Shopian said the diversions at Newa in periphery and Pulwama and Tahab were also washed away by the flash floods. Culverts at both the places were decimated by the September floods forcing authorities to opt for diversions. One of these two diversions was set up by the army and the then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had driven to inaugurate it.

A report, not immediately confirmed by the officials, suggested a portion of the major bridge on Ferozpore nulla near Kunzar was washed away by the flash floods.

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Gauging Jhelum: It Is Safely Green At All The Three Spots, So Far

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Irrigation and Flood Control officials said the gauges at three spots on Jhelum are still under control and far away from the state where a dangerous situation could be annoumced.

At 2 pm, Sangam in south Kashmir measured 13.60 ft – an increase of 0.50 ft in an hour. They said when it reaches 18 ft it becomes alarming and at 21 ft flood is declared and when it reaches 23 ft, it is a danger level.

The gauge at Ram Munishbagh, in the outskirts of Srinagar city, was 13.55 ft – an increase of 0.30 ft in an hour. Here 16 ft is the alarming level, flood is declared at 18 ft and danger level in 19 ft.

At Asham in north Kashmir, the gauge level at 1 pm was 8.66 ft – a marginal increase of 0.08 ft in an hour. Here, 13 ft means alarming situation, 14 ft flood declaration and 18 ft danger mark.

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As flood panic builds, police establishes special control room

KL Report

SRINAGAR

In a wake of situation created by incessant and swelling Jhelum, police on Sunday established a Special Control Room in Police Control Room Srinagar to help people in situation arising due to bad weather.

“People are requested to contact on following numbers in case of any help is needed: 0194-2452138, 0194-2474040, 0194-2450946,” the police handout said. “People can also send Whatsapp messages/pictures on mobile number 9858222333.”

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Flood Control Department Dithered In Fixing Embankment Breaches?

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Devastating floods in September 2014 had breached Jhelum embankments at as many as 157 spots, the government informed the legislative council early this week. While temporary restoration of all these cuts was done, not a single of the severe 66 spots was treated so far on permanent basis.

Irrigation minister told the house that they spent Rs 6.86 crore of Rs 7.55 crore released by the finance ministry for temporary restoration of 157 cuts and breaches. For permanent restoration of 66 spots, the department required Rs 16.39 crore which was released. It is, however, yet to be spent as the works have been tendered and may take some more time.

Irrigation minister also said that dredging activity was taken up at various places. However, he said, ‘comprehensive controlled dredging’ will be completed only after Rs 401 crore “Priority Flood Management Plan” is approved by the Water Resources Ministry of the Government of India.

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Incessant rainfall triggers another flood panic in valley

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The latest drizzle has set off flood alarms ringing over Valley and thus creating a panic in people akin to last year’s September flood.

The rising water level in Jhelum has forced many people to shift toward the safer zones.

Earlier the deputy chief minister Nirmal Singh informed in a handout that at Ram Munshibagh, the water level stands at 12.6 feet against alarm level of 16 feet, while as at Asham the water level has been recorded as 8.50 feet against alarm level of 30 feet. “Administration is on full alert in the wake of heavy rains in valley and the situation is being monitored continuously,” Singh told the legislative assembly.

Singh further said Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed was on way to Srinagar to personally monitor the situation arising due to incessant rains in the Valley.

The incessant rainfall triggered landslides and floods and thus forced authorities to close the Highway.

The MeT department has issued fresh warning of floods and landslides in valley.

Earlier as per reports, 80 houses and 99 families have been evacuated in Budgam.

Amid all this, the deputy chief minister said people should not panic and assured that all precautionary measures have been put in place.

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Police forms SIT to locate missing ASI

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Police on Saturday said that it has constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to search for the missing police official in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

A police official told GNS that the SIT headed by a senior sub Inspector has been constituted to launch searches for ASI Mohammad Shafi Parray resident of Wussan, Kangan who went missing from his home on 26th evening.

“A large scale search operation by three teams of police and a team from SDRF conducting search for the missing person in the nearby forests, villages and river Sindh”, he said.

Special teams have also been deputed to adjoining villages to get the information about the missing police official by all possible means. Search operations will continue till the whereabouts of the missing are not known, the official said.

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Mufti meets Jaitley, calls for speed-tracking reconstruction package post 2014 floods

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed met the Union Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley, Saturday. This was the first meeting he had with Jaitley after assuming the charge of the State as Chief Minister.

Minister for Finance, Dr. Haseeb. A. Drabu, was also present on the occasion.

The Chief Minister discussed with the Union Finance Minister the support required for relief and rehabilitation post the devastating floods of the September 2014. He highlighted the need for reconstruction package for the State which has already been submitted to the Government of India.

The Chief Minister emphasized the need to speed-track the financing of the rehabilitation package, which needs to be started within the next month.

The Union Finance Minister assured the Chief Minister of full support and said the Centre would find ways to fund the immediate restoration of livelihood and reconstruction in the short-term.

The Union Finance Minister also suggested that the State Government should identify projects in the roads and other public-interest sectors which can be financed within the current budgetary allocation.

In view of the upcoming tourist season, the Chief Minister pointed out the urgency for restoring the existing tourism infrastructure which has been badly damaged in the floods.

This underlines the need for quick distribution of the package which has been with the Union Government for the last six months, the Chief Minister added.

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Girl commits suicide in Bandipora

KL Report

SRINAGAR

A girl ended her life by consuming poisonous substance in Bandipora.

A girl (name with held) resident of Palhallan consumed some poisonous substance at Pushwari Naidkhai, jurisdiction of Police Station Sumbal. She was shifted to PHC Sumbal for treatment where from she was shifted to JVC Srinagar but expired on way to hospital. The body of the deceased was handed over to her relatives for last rites. Bandipora Police has registered a case in this regard.

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MeT Calendar for Kashmir; March 28-April 4

KL Report

SRINAGAR

The Metrology department has issued a weather warning for March 28 to April 4 in Jammu and Kashmir, reports said.

They added that Western Disturbances in quick succession is likely to affect J&K and adjoining area from Saturday evening to April 4.

According to the MeT department moderate to heavy rainfall will occur at most places in Kashmir & Jammu regions and at a few places in Ladakh region. Snowfall has been forecasted in the higher altitudes.

As per the MeT department heavy rain/snow is expected in almost all parts of the state mainly on March 29 and April 3.

The weather system may disrupt surface and air transport during above periods.

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Boy drowns in Lolab

KL Report

SRINAGAR

A 4-year-old boy drowned after falling inside a deep bore well here in Lolab area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Friday.

Reports reaching here said that Mubashir Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Rashid Bhat of Kantpora Lolab fell into a deep bore well near his house today afternoon.

After the boy fell into the well, the family of the area immediately retrieved him.

The residents tried their best to take the boy to the hospital in time. However due to non-completion of bridge in the area, it according to locals took them more than 45 minutes to reach the hospital where doctors declared him brought dead.

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2 more test positive for Swine Flu; toll 401

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Two more persons were tested positive for deadly virus Swine Flu in Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura on Friday, an official said here.

PRO SKIMS, Kulsoom Bhat in a statement issued to GNS said the toll of infected persons have climbed to 401 in Kashmir Valley. However, the spokesperson said, no death was reported in last 24 hours.

“Also 37 patients were seen today and 2 fresh samples were taken. Two fresh suspected cases of H1N1 are admitted in isolation ward,” she said.

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Vajpayee, one of the greatest visionary leaders in post-Independence era: Mufti

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Friday described the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as one of the tallest visionary statesmen of the country. He said conferring Bharat Ratna on him is a fitting recognition of his illustrious Political career.

The Chief Minister said this while attending a function here today where the former Prime Minister received the prestigious award from the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee.

Describing Vajpayee as one of the most outstanding Prime Ministers of the country in the post-Independence era, Mufti said he believed in taking the country forward through consensus and reconciliation.

Praising Vajpayee’s efforts during his tenure as Prime Minister in taking peace initiatives in the State, the Chief Minister said Vajpayee is still admired in J&K for his historic initiatives in engaging all stakeholders in a constructive and meaningful dialogue.

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Will go beyond Uri and Dulhasti power projects: Mehbooba

KL Report

SRINAGAR

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Friday said it will not confine its approach to the return of Uri-I and Dulhasti power projects from NHPC but explore all options to make JK rich in power resources.

The PDP president Mehbooba Mufti while talking to KNS said that besides exploring the modalities of returning Uri-I and Dulhasti to Jammu and Kashmir, the party is striving to revise all royalties and would ensure that the state get its due share. “We have put forward our point and pitched for one of six ultra mega thermal projects at Madya Pradesh,” Mehbooba said, adding that the PDP will go beyond the demand of Uri and Dulhasti’s return.

She maintained that the party will rectify the “wrongs committed by the National Conference in the past and gave away the projects of the state against petty political gains.”

“We have the tenure of six years and we want to assure that the biggest problem faced by the people of the state is of power and same will be addressed during the present dispensation. Everything is in black and white. There is nothing hidden from the people of the state,” Mehbooba said.

Pertinently, the Legislative Assembly Friday witnessed ruckus over the refusal of Center in returning the power projects to the state.

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