Mehbooba Mufti Raises Alarm Over Ramban Landslide, Crop Damage & Illegal Mining; Urges Government Action
Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti on Monday expressed deep concern over the devastation caused by a massive landslide in Ramban district. Addressing a press conference, Mufti said the disaster has blocked key roads, leaving many people stranded and in urgent need of help.
“A major calamity has struck Ramban. Roads are blocked, people are stranded, and lives have been lost. This is the result of indiscriminate deforestation and hill-cutting,” she said, appealing to the government to act swiftly and ensure rescue and relief for those affected.
Mufti also drew attention to crop losses due to adverse weather conditions across the Union Territory. “Strong winds in Jammu have damaged basmati and other crops, while in Kashmir, apple and almond orchards are under threat. The government must provide compensation to the affected farmers,” she stressed.
Raising the issue of daily wage workers, the PDP president reiterated her call for their regularisation. “There’s an ongoing protest by daily wagers. During our tenure, we had introduced an SRO and a bill, which was passed by the LG but couldn’t reach the assembly. These workers deserve regularisation,” she said.
Mufti further voiced serious concerns about illegal mining in the region, alleging the involvement of mafias and the exploitation of contractors. “We had introduced a resolution to streamline mining operations, but those who won contracts are being denied clearances. A mining mafia has emerged, extorting money from genuine contractors,” she alleged, adding that relatives of political leaders are also complicit in the issue.
She urged the Chief Minister to personally intervene and investigate the matter. “This exploitation must stop. If legal mining is allowed and monitored, it can generate revenue and employment. The current situation, however, is deeply concerning,” she said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also addressed the Ramban crisis, acknowledging the severity of the situation, particularly near the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
“Conditions are very serious, especially along the highway. The Deputy CM and local MLAs are on the ground. Efforts are underway to restore road connectivity and assist affected residents,” Abdullah stated.
He added that the Centre has been approached for support and that National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are being deployed. “We are also seeking relief through the PM Relief Fund and other sources to ensure timely compensation for the victims,” he said.
Heavy rains triggered landslides and flash floods in Ramban on Sunday, with Bagahana village among the worst-hit areas. At least three people, including two children, lost their lives after their homes collapsed in the disaster.
