Aerial survey by Azad in snow affected areas in Kashmir

Srinagar, Mar 15 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad did an aerial survey of the areas affected by the unprecedented snowfall, the heaviest after 15 years in the Kashmir valley.

He also visited most of the snow-affected areas of the valley by road to take stock of the situation.

Mr Azad did an aerial survey of most of the districts of the valley and thoroughly assessed the situation risen out of the recent snowfall in Budgam, Chadoora, Pakherpora, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Pahalgam Damhal Hanjipora, Jawahar Tunnel and other affected towns and villages of the valley.

He also visited villages on higher altitudes, which recorded maximum snowfall.

During the survey he found all the roads leading to districts, towns and villages were in operation.

The Chief Minister also made assessment by making thorough survey of vast almond orchards scattered in Shopain, Pulwama and Budgam districts and parts of Anantnag and Srinagar belt. Mr Azad was informed that almond buds in most of the areas had started blooming before time and due to fluctuation of temperature and sudden heavy snowfall severe injuries have been caused to almond crop at the budding stage due to which it is apprehended that the production may get affected this year .

He advised Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir to submit a report giving details about the damages caused to the almond crop.

Mr Azad also directed operating maximum number of flights to airlift the stranded passengers.

Director Airport and concerned flight operating authorities informed the Chief Minister that since yesterday 28 fights have operated from the airport.

The Chief Minister also advised Airport authorities to keep all the infrastructure in place and work for enhancing the number of flights so that people are able to utilize their services comfortably and conveniently.

He also advised Beacon authorities to work round the clock at Penthal to remove the road blockades as soon as possible so that large number of truck loads carrying essentials reach the valley.

UNI