Jammu

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday announced an ex gratia relief of Rs 6 lakh for the next of kin of those killed in rain-related incidents in Rajouri and Poonch districts.

At least 13 people - - 10 in Poonch and three in Rajouri - - lost their lives, while seven others are missing following flash floods and landslide incidents since Sunday.

Expressing profound grief over the loss of lives caused by the flash floods, landslides and other rain-related incidents, the chief minister said while no amount of financial assistance can compensate for the irreparable loss suffered by the affected families, the government stands firmly with them during this difficult time.

"While no amount of financial assistance can ever compensate for the irreparable loss of life caused by yesterday's flash floods, landslides and other rain-related incidents in Poonch and Rajouri, an ex-gratia relief of Rs 6 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased as an immediate measure of support for the bereaved families," Abdullah said.

The spokesman said the relief package comprises Rs 4 lakh from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and an additional Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF).

The announcement follows a high-level review meeting chaired by the chief minister on Sunday evening in the aftermath of the devastating flash floods and other rain-related incidents that struck the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch, resulting in multiple fatalities and widespread damage to public and private property, the spokesman said.

ALSO READ: V.P. Suhara fights for justice for Muslim women with Quran and Constitution

During the meeting, he directed the administration to ensure immediate relief and rehabilitation of the affected families, stressing that all possible assistance should reach them without delay.

He also underscored the need for coordinated efforts by all departments to restore essential services and expedite relief measures in the affected areas.