Srinagar, April 26, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah left his Srinagar Rosidence today, heading to Ramban district to personally oversee the response to a catastrophic cloudburst on April 20. The disaster, which struck Seri Bagna village, claimed lives, destroyed homes, and disrupted the critical Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), leaving communities in distress and connectivity severed.
The cloudburst triggered widespread destruction, blocking NH-44—a vital artery linking the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India—with debris and mudslides. Hundreds of travelers remain stranded, and essential supplies have been disrupted. Abdullah’s visit, his third to Ramban since the crisis began, reflects his hands-on approach to managing the natural calamity and ensuring relief and recovery for affected residents.
In Ramban, Abdullah will assess rescue operations and monitor efforts to clear NH-44, where restoration work is underway but hampered by extensive damage. Joined by senior officials, he will review the provision of aid to displaced families and the progress of relief measures, including community kitchens and water supply initiatives set up to support those impacted. His earlier visits to affected areas like Kela Morh and Maroog saw him engaging directly with residents, promising robust assistance to rebuild lives.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration, working alongside the Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local teams, has deployed resources to rescue stranded individuals and distribute essentials like food and medical supplies. Abdullah has urged citizens to cooperate, avoid panic buying, and report any exploitation, ensuring aid reaches those in need. The Border Roads Organisation and Public Works Department are racing against time to restore highway access, with full functionality expected to take several days.
Sentiments on X highlight public support for Abdullah’s leadership, with one post noting, “CM Omar Abdullah’s commitment to Ramban’s people during this crisis is inspiring.” The Chief Minister has pledged to seek Central assistance, including funds from the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund, to compensate for losses to homes, crops, and livestock, describing the disaster as a severe but localized challenge.
Abdullah’s proactive presence in Ramban underscores the urgency of addressing the cloudburst crisis and restoring normalcy. His leadership, coupled with coordinated government efforts, offers hope to a region grappling with the aftermath of nature’s fury, paving the way for recovery and resilience.
