Kishtwar (Jammu and Kashmir), August 16: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday confirmed that 55 bodies have been recovered so far following the devastating flash floods in Kishtwar, while many others are still reported missing.
“Till now, 55 bodies have been retrieved. We have lost many precious lives, and several people are still missing. One body has also been recovered near the Dul Hasti dam site,” Abdullah said.
He stressed that the administration’s immediate priority remains rescue and relief. “Our focus is on saving lives first, followed by relief and rehabilitation. In these difficult times, the government stands with the affected families,” he added.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo also visited the disaster-hit region to oversee ongoing relief operations. He informed that multiple agencies including the CISF, CRPF, and J&K Police have been deployed, along with several ambulances. “Rescue operations are underway, and permanent rehabilitation measures will also be taken. Affected families will be allotted land to rebuild their houses, and the government will support them,” he stated.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister announced a relief package for the victims. Families of the deceased will receive ₹2 lakh each, while those severely injured will be given ₹1 lakh. Victims with minor injuries will receive ₹50,000. In addition, compensation has been announced for damaged property: ₹1 lakh for fully damaged structures, ₹50,000 for severely damaged, and ₹25,000 for partially damaged structures.
Omar Abdullah, who personally visited the affected areas and met survivors, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. “The government stands firmly with the people in this hour of grief. Instructions have also been issued for the immediate restoration of damaged infrastructure,” the Jammu and Kashmir CMO posted on X.
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