Cold wave grips Rajouri amid heavy rainfall, advisory issued

Rajouri (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 3 (ANI): A sudden cold wave has gripped Rajouri and the wider Pir Panjal region following continuous heavy rainfall, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures and harsh weather conditions in the area.
In view of the prevailing situation, the district administration has issued an advisory urging residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in hilly and vulnerable areas.
Speaking on the situation, ADC Kalakote Dr Mohd Tanvir said the weather had changed abruptly. "It was a drought season earlier, and after that, this rainy season has come. For the past two or three days, a high alert has been in place, with heavy rains expected until April 10," he said, talking to ANI.
Highlighting preparedness, he said that all departments are on alert. "Our entire administration in the sub-division, including departments for roads, electricity, PHE, and health, is on high alert. If there's a road blockage, the road department is ready to act. If there are problems with electricity or storms, our staff is on high alert to prevent any inconvenience to the public," he said.
Advising caution, he said, "I urge everyone not to leave their houses unnecessarily, as the weather advisory predicts significant rainfall. We are sharing this advisory with the people. It has become quite cold; we were wearing shirts earlier, but now we need sweaters. If you must go out, carry a jacket or sweater with you."
He added that emergency systems are in place. "We are continuously monitoring all vulnerable and hilly areas, especially those prone to landslides. Our teams are on the ground. Control rooms have been activated, and staff have been deployed at critical locations so that immediate action can be taken in case of road blockages," he said.
"We are also coordinating with disaster response teams to ensure that there is no delay in assistance if any situation arises," he continued.
He stressed the importance of essential services. "Our priority is to maintain drinking water supply, healthcare, electricity, and road connectivity, even in remote areas," he said.
Urging vigilance, he said, "Those living near riverbanks or in low-lying areas should remain extra cautious, as water levels may rise due to continuous rainfall. Public cooperation is very important at this time. People should not panic but must remain alert and report any emergency immediately."
"Schools and institutions have been advised to take precautions to ensure the safety of students and staff," he added.
Authorities have warned of possible disruptions, including slippery roads, waterlogging, and increased risk of landslides, urging residents to strictly follow safety guidelines during the ongoing spell of inclement weather.
Amid the ongoing spell of harsh weather in Rajouri, the developmental works in border areas like Nowshera block continue to play a crucial role in improving safety, connectivity, and resilience for residents living along the Line of Control.
Works such as road connectivity, construction of footpaths, culverts, and protective bunkers are being executed at a fast pace in several far-flung and border villages. These initiatives are aimed at improving mobility, safety, and overall living conditions of residents living close to the Line of Control.
The development of roads and pathways is helping people access essential services like healthcare, education, and markets more easily. Meanwhile, the construction of culverts is ensuring better drainage and connectivity, especially during the rainy season.
Importantly, the construction of bunkers is providing a sense of security to border residents, safeguarding them during cross-border tensions and shelling incidents.
Locals have expressed gratitude for these initiatives, stating that such projects are transforming their daily lives and addressing long-standing issues faced by border communities.
Speaking to ANI, a resident, Sureshta, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the availability of bunkers in homes and schools, stating that there is no fear when firing incidents take place.
"Bunkers have been given to schools, and we are thankful to the PM Modi's government, who have given us safety. Today, every home has a bunker, and there are also community bunkers. We feel safe thanks to them. Earlier, many people got injured, and things are different now. There is no fear in schools now. Even if firing takes place, we easily go into our bunkers," she said.
"It is a great thing that PM Modi's government has given us bunkers, especially in Nowshera district," said an ex-service man, Depty Lal.
The ongoing works reflect the government's focus on strengthening infrastructure and ensuring the welfare and safety of people living in sensitive border areas. (ANI)