The Jammu and Kashmir government has identified 654 villages at risk as wet weather continues for a fourth day. Officials have shifted 1,505 people to safety while preparing for further evacuations.
Jammu and Kashmir continued to face difficult conditions from ongoing wet weather on July 22, with rivers and streams in spate and landslips reported. The government identified 654 vulnerable villages housing an estimated 7.22 lakh people. As a precaution, 1,505 residents were moved to rescue centres.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reviewed restoration works, relief measures and flood preparedness in Srinagar. Authorities have readied 744 rescue centres, 108 SDRF boats, 25 Army boats and other resources including satellite phones and helipads. District and state emergency centres are operating around the clock.
At least 22 people have died in landslides and flash floods since July 19. Two more deaths and five injuries occurred on July 22 when stones hit a vehicle in Ramban district. One body was recovered in Bandipora. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Chowdhary and MP Mian Altaf Ahmed escaped unharmed after landslips affected their cavalcade.
Meteorological director Mukhtar Ahmad reported 330 mm of rain in many areas by Wednesday morning. A fresh spell is likely on July 23, with improvement expected from July 24.
