Omar Abdullah's Government Fails to Rehabilitate Warwan Fire Victims; Demand LG Intervention Manzoor Bhat
95 families still homeless. BJP Seeks Immediate Relief
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Srinagar, Oct 21: BJP Senior Leader Manzoor Bhat visited Warwan as directed by the party high command, spending two days engaging with local residents and fire-affected families. During his two days visit, it was evident that the community feels abandoned, with many stating that the relief efforts have been inadequate and poorly managed. The people of Warwan are no longer seeking temporary relief; they are calling for permanent housing solutions to ensure their safety and security as winter approaches.
Bhat said Despite the promises made by Omar Abdullah's government, the situation remains dire, with victims expressing their frustration over unfulfilled commitments, including the promised cheques of two lakhs each, which have yet to be disbursed.
While the Chief Minister visited the area, Bhat noted that there were no concrete commitments to provide new homes, leaving the families in uncertainty. He also criticized the delay in essential services, lack of reliable communication and electricity. Although a communication tower has been installed, it is non-functional.
Reflecting on the fire incident, Bhat highlighted the critical absence of local infrastructure. “When the fire broke out, it took over six hours for a fire service vehicle to arrive from Anantnag. Warwan is a sub-tehsil, and it's unacceptable that it still lacks its own fire service station. Immediate steps should be taken to provide basic necessities like, electricity, and a dedicated fire service."
In collaboration with NGOs, Bhat helped distribute relief materials, but he stressed the need for long-term solutions. "The Union government will certainly step in, but the state must act now. Housing needs to be provided without delay, especially given the harsh winter conditions ahead. Rs 2 lakh is not nearly enough to rebuild their lives."
In his concluding remarks, Bhat urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to visit the area, saying that the families were requesting his personal involvement. "A visit from the Lieutenant Governor would not only provide moral support but also ensure the necessary resources are mobilized quickly to prevent further hardship," Bhat stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation as winter approaches.