J-K: House collapses near Baglihar Dam reservoir in Ramban due to land subsidence; DC inspects area

Ramban (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 25 (ANI): Several houses have developed cracks due to land subsidence in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting the local administration to relocate families living in the affected structures to safer locations.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan on Monday inspected the affected area near the Baglihar Dam reservoir to assess the situation and review the damage caused by the land subsidence.
"A house recently collapsed and sank here due to land subsidence near the dam. A couple of other houses also developed cracks, so we came to inspect the situation. We have shifted the residents of the house that appeared to be at risk to a safe location and have made all necessary arrangements for them," the Deputy Commissioner told ANI.
He added that engineers have been instructed to assess the damage so that residents receive appropriate compensation.
"We have listened to the people's other concerns and addressed them as well... We are re-inspecting the houses at risk to ensure everyone is kept safe. If a house is in danger, we will relocate the occupants to a safer place," Khan added.
Reacting to the incident, BJP leader Neelam Langeh said there has been significant damage in the area over the past few days.
"There has been significant damage here over the past few days. A house has been completely destroyed... this area is practically submerged... The administration is doing its job, but it is unfortunate that the National Conference government and its representatives remain indifferent to the fact that a poor person's home is being submerged," he added.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning had lashed several parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, which had prompted district administrations to issue safety advisories.
In Ramban district, intense downpours and lightning were reported in different parts of the district. As a precautionary measure, the Ramban district administration had issued an alert and had advised residents -- especially those living in upper reaches and in proximity to rivers, streams, and other water bodies -- to remain cautious and to avoid unnecessary travel during the inclement weather. (ANI)