Early Times Report
Jammu, Aug 28: Authorities face an uphill task in ensuring proper rehabilitation and restoration of Chasoti village in Kishtwar district, which was ravaged by a devastating cloudburst and flash floods on August 14.
The biggest challenge before the administration is the short work season in the hilly region, as the area typically receives its first snowfall by October, leaving barely a month to carry out large-scale restoration works.
Officials said that although relief and temporary arrangements are in place for the displaced families, the long-term rehabilitation plan — including rebuilding of houses, restoration of roads, electricity, water supply, and other essential services — must be completed before the onset of harsh winter conditions.
“Once the snow sets in, not only does construction activity become impossible, but even accessibility to the affected area becomes a major hurdle,” said a senior official.
The geographical terrain further complicates matters. The narrow, steep, and landslide-prone approach roads have already hampered the transportation of construction material and machinery.
Heavy rainfall in recent weeks has added to the difficulties, slowing down the pace of work. Authorities are now working ag The biggest challenge before the administration is the short work season in the hilly region.
The area typically receives its first snowfall by October, leaving barely a month to carry out large-scale restoration works.
Although relief and temporary arrangements are in place for the displaced families, the long-term rehabilitation plan must be completed before the onset of harsh winter.
The narrow, steep, and landslide-prone approach roads have already hampered the transportation of construction material and machinery.
Local residents, many of whom lost their homes, livestock, and livelihood in the calamity, are anxious about their future. “We have been promised rehabilitation, but the winter is fast approaching. If permanent shelters are not constructed in time, surviving the cold months in makeshift arrangements will be very difficult,” said a resident of Chasoti.
Officials acknowledge the concerns but assure that no effort will be spared.
“We are treating this as a priority project. The government is committed to completing maximum possible work before snowfall. Additional teams and resources are being deployed on a war footing,” the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar said.
Experts, however, point out that long-term planning is equally essential. They suggest that in addition to immediate rehabilitation, the government must also focus on strengthening disaster preparedness and creating resilient infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, which have become increasingly frequent in the region.
For now, the race against time continues in Choshiti, with authorities scrambling to finish critical restoration works before the harsh Himalayan winter sets in. |
