In a significant step towards gauging the ground reality and ensuring the welfare of affected civilians, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, Atal Dulloo, today conducted an extensive visit to the border subdivisions of Akhnoor and Khour, areas that have borne the brunt of relentless cross-border shelling over the past few days.
The Chief Secretary was accompanied by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar; Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, and a team of senior officials from various departments, including disaster management, health, and public works.
During his visit, Dulloo inspected Government Higher Secondary Schools in Sohal and Bhalwal Brahamna, which have been converted into temporary relief shelters for families displaced due to the ongoing hostilities. At these shelters, he interacted with the affected residents, many of whom shared their harrowing experiences of evacuation and loss.
Dulloo closely reviewed the arrangements made for the displaced persons, including food distribution, drinking water, electricity, sanitation, and bedding facilities. He expressed satisfaction with the coordinated efforts by the district administration and directed the concerned departments to further streamline the supply of essentials and maintain hygienic conditions at all shelter sites.
Taking special note of the medical facilities, the Chief Secretary examined the availability of doctors, medicines, and emergency care provisions at the shelters. He instructed the Health Department to immediately scale up medical aid, deploy mobile medical units, and ensure round-the-clock availability of healthcare personnel to treat injuries and address mental health concerns arising from the traumatic circumstances.
In his direct interaction with the affected families, Dulloo listened empathetically to their concerns and assured them that the government stands firmly with them during this difficult time. He emphasised the importance of constant communication between local officials and the people, urging the administration to maintain an active presence in the field.
Later in the day, the Chief Secretary toured several villages near the Line of Control, where he conducted an on-ground inspection of the damage caused to residential homes, livestock shelters, roads, and public infrastructure. He directed the revenue authorities to immediately begin damage assessment and submit relief compensation proposals without delay.
In light of the repeated shelling incidents, Dulloo stressed on the urgency of long-term safety measures, instructing district officials to expedite the construction of community bunkers and strengthen the resilience of border hamlets through disaster-preparedness infrastructure.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Chief Secretary Dulloo said, “The administration is dedicated to providing all necessary assistance, ensuring the safety, rehabilitation, and dignified living of our border residents. No effort will be spared in restoring normalcy and mitigating their hardships.”
The visit highlighted the administration’s proactive approach to crisis management and its resolve to ensure that the affected citizens are not left alone in the face of adversity.
