Save Nomad gujjars and bakerwals, TRCF to PM and J

Srinagar, Feb 8 (UNI) The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation (TRCF) has appealed to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad to save Nomad Gujjars and Bakerwals trapped in the upper reaches of Shivalik and Pir Panchal mountain range due to heavy snowfall.

''Please arrange rescue for the trapped people, TRCF general secretary Dr Javaid Rahi said in a memorandum to Dr Singh and Mr Azad.

He said as per reports hundreds of nomads and bakerwals were trapped along with their thousands of cattle and other livestock in the upper reaches.

In view of disaster situation the TRCF has appealed to the Army authorities to rescue the nomad Gujjars trapped in the upper reaches of Kashmir Vellay, Doda, Poonch, Udhampur and Rajouri districts.

The memorandum further says that in case the government fails to undertake rescue and relief operations, the survival of the nomads and their livestock would be in danger.

The TRCF has also appealed to the authorities to conducting immediate survey to assess the loss of human lives and livestock's.

The memorandum says that government should now focus on most sensitive tribals area and avalanche prone hilly areas of the valley, including Bhimber Galli, Dehara Galli Jamia Gali, Hill Kaka, Pir Ki Marg, Upper Banihal, Wadwan, Old Mughal Road, Gurez, Kokarnag , Daksum Kulgam and Zijilla, which have been lashed by heavy snow and rain.

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