Naqvi blames floods on ‘illegal construction’

In a report submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has cited “dilapidated sewerage system” in Kashmir and “rampant illegal construction” around Jhelum riverbed as the factors that have made the Valley prone to flooding.

Sources said that the minister, who returned from the day-long tour of the Valley, has stated that the Central assistance given to the state government during the September flood was not utilised properly, as a result of which districts like Baramullah and Srinagar that witnessed devastation last time have been badly affected this time too, even though the scale of the tragedy is possibly less.

The minister, who refused to comment on the contents of his report, told The Indian Express: “There is no need for panic. Our government is committed to help all those who have been affected by the flood and all possible measures will be taken for relief and evacuation.”

Source:: Indian Express