Jitendra Singh Hails Local Heroes in Kishtwar Flash Flood Crisis

Union Minister Jitendra Singh paid a visit to Jammu Government Medical College and Hospital on Friday to check on individuals injured in the Kishtwar flash floods, describing the calamity as unprecedented. Speaking to ANI, Singh remarked, "This unprecedented disaster is unlike anything we've seen or heard in our lifetime. While cloudbursts have occurred in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, this incident was particularly severe."

Singh commended the local residents' rapid response. "The locals, as first responders, did an admirable job. The sudden occurrence caught everyone off guard, from security personnel to administration and local officials. However, the locals promptly initiated relief work, with the first alert coming from the local authorities. Within five minutes, I received a call from local MLA Sunil Sharma," he stated. The Union Minister also applauded the coordinated rescue operations, adding, "The rescue efforts, involving paramilitary forces, CRPF, BSF, the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and the local administration under the whole-of-government approach, will serve as a model for the nation. Additionally, the BRO was crucial in debris removal following the initial operations."

He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's active role in monitoring the crisis. "The PM is closely reviewing the entire situation and spoke with the LG yesterday," Singh noted. On casualties, he reported, "So far, 53 bodies have been recovered; four remain unidentified. However, more may be buried in the debris, especially in the heavily crowded langar area when the disaster struck, with 1,500-2,000 people present." Singh lauded the hospital administration's efforts, saying, "The principal, Dr. Ashutosh, and his team deserve praise for their dedication. They've provided not only medical care but crucial counseling to those in shock." Of the 67 injured admitted, five have been discharged, with more expected soon, Singh explained.

(With inputs from agencies.)