Ramban, Jammu and Kashmir, April 22, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Dharamkund in Ramban district to meet families devastated by recent flash floods and landslides triggered by a cloudburst on April 20, 2025. The natural disaster caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, claiming three lives, including two children, in Bagahana village.
Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Ramban Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary, senior civil and police officials, and political advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, CM Abdullah was scheduled to land in Dharamkund by helicopter to interact with victims who lost homes and livelihoods. However, due to landing issues, the visit to Dharamkund was canceled, and he proceeded directly to Ramban town to assess the damage and oversee relief operations. Despite this, Abdullah’s visit to other affected areas like Marog and Kela Morh demonstrated his commitment to supporting the affected communities.
The cloudburst led to widespread destruction, damaging 37 houses, a temple, and vehicles, though no additional casualties were reported in Dharamkund. The district administration, along with the Public Works Department (PWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), disaster response units, police, volunteers, and locals, has been working tirelessly to clear mudslides and boulders to restore normalcy. One-way traffic was restored on the Jammu-Srinagar highway on April 25, allowing vehicles to move from Jammu to Srinagar, though full restoration is ongoing.
During his visit, Abdullah assured affected families of comprehensive rehabilitation efforts, stating that his government would do everything possible to help them rebuild. He announced immediate relief under Red Cross norms and plans to seek Central assistance by requesting Ramban be declared a “disaster zone.” The Chief Minister also addressed local complaints about blocked drains and culverts during highway construction, promising to raise the issue with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
Residents expressed frustration over delays in relief and restoration of essential services like electricity and water, with some halting Abdullah’s convoy to voice their grievances. The Chief Minister engaged with them, reinforcing the government’s commitment to swift action. Union Minister Jitendra Singh also assured full administrative support, praising the Indian Army and district administration for their efforts.
Abdullah’s second visit to Ramban on April 26, 2025, focused on reviewing the progress of highway restoration and other infrastructure repairs. He emphasised the provision of food, water, and medical aid to affected families, ensuring no shortage of essentials.
