JAMMU, Jul 10: Expressing serious concern over the recurring devastation caused by monsoon showers and untimely rains across Jammu and Kashmir, Col RK Sharma has urged the J&K Government to immediately undertake a comprehensive overhaul of drainage infrastructure in both urban and rural areas to avert loss of life and property.
Col Sharma said the absence of a scientifically planned drainage network has become a major cause of flooding, waterlogging, and damage to residential properties, roads, and agricultural land.
He noted that several newly developed residential colonies have come up without adequate drainage facilities, leaving thousands of residents to face avoidable hardships every rainy season.
Citing Banyan Enclave as a glaring example, Col Sharma alleged that despite repeated representations to the concerned authorities and multiple public protests highlighting the issue, no effective measures have been taken to construct a proper drainage system in the locality. As a result, residents continue to face immense difficulties whenever heavy rainfall occurs, with rainwater entering homes and damaging public infrastructure.
“We cannot afford to forget the devastation caused by floods last time. We must learn from that tragedy and be ready 24×7 to tackle any eventuality,” Col Sharma said. “The authorities cannot remain silent spectators while people continue to suffer year after year. Development without proper drainage planning is incomplete and irresponsible,” he added.
Col Sharma warned that if any untoward incident, flooding, or damage to public or private property occurs due to the government’s failure to establish an effective drainage system, the responsibility would rest squarely with the concerned authorities.
He called upon the administration to launch an immediate survey of all vulnerable urban and rural areas, particularly newly developed colonies, and prepare a time-bound action plan for constructing and upgrading drainage networks before the peak monsoon season.
Emphasizing that disaster preparedness begins with robust civic infrastructure, Col Sharma urged the government to treat drainage management as a top priority rather than responding only after disasters strike. “Proactive planning and timely execution will not only protect lives and property but will also enhance public confidence in the administration,” he said.