Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 20 (ANI): People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday expressed deep concern over the tragic landslides and flash floods in Ramban district. She urged the Omar Abdullah-led Jammu and Kashmir government to immediately evacuate vulnerable groups and ensure that food, water, and medical aid reach those in need.

She also asked the government to restore connectivity and take long-term steps to prevent such incidents in the future, including the use of early warning systems and better infrastructure.

https://x.com/MehboobaMufti/status/1913882269359444438

In a post on X, Mufti said, 'The devastating landslides triggered by relentless rains along the Ramban section of the Jammu-Srinagar Highway have claimed lives, buried vehicles, and stranded many. Urge the administration to prioritise the immediate evacuation of vulnerable groups--elderly, women, and children--while providing food, water, and medical aid. Swiftly clear debris, restore connectivity and implement long-term measures like early warning systems and infrastructure upgrades to prevent such tragedies.'

Earlier in the day, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed grief over the landslides and flash floods that caused serious damage to life and property in Ramban.

In a post shared by the Chief Minister's Office on X, Abdullah said, 'Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban, which has caused considerable damage to life and property. My thoughts are with the affected families in this difficult hour. We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts wherever needed. Later today, I will be reviewing restoration, relief, and repair plans. For now, the focus remains on managing the situation on the ground. Citizens are advised to follow travel advisories and avoid non-essential movement in vulnerable areas.'

He offered condolences to the affected families and assured them that rescue and relief work was underway.

Heavy rains in Ramban on Sunday led to landslides that completely blocked the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and damaged several houses and vehicles.

Authorities have warned commuters not to travel on the highway until the weather improves and clearance work is finished.

'The national highway (Jammu-Srinagar NH in Ramban district) is completely blocked (due to landslides). Avoid this highway till the weather improves. Clearance work is ongoing, but it does not seem that the highway will open before evening or tomorrow because it is raining continuously,' he said.

Several buildings and vehicles were damaged due to the landslides, which were triggered by heavy rainfall and hailstorms in the region. (ANI)