15 died, 50 wounded, over 650 houses damaged in Kashmir snow

Srinagar, Feb 21 (UNI) Heaviest snowfall in 20 years left 15 people dead, 50 others wounded, 600 houses and other structures partially damaged and 60 fully damaged in the Kashmir valley.

This information was given to Chief Secretary B R Kundal during a meeting here, an official spokesman said today.

He said Mr Kundal lauded the dedicated efforts put in by the divisional administration in restoring essential supplies and services as also road connectivity within the shortest possible time after the recent heavy snowfall in the valley.

Taking in-depth and exhaustive review of post snowfall scenario, physical and financial achievements under various sectors, the Chief Secretary announced release of Rupees one crore for replacement of worn out and damaged electric polls.

He also sanctioned Rs 80 lakh to meet expenditure on snow clearance.

The meeting was informed that about 65 to 70 per cent financial and physical achievements have been registered under district plan in the valley districts, so far which was expected to swell to about 95 per cent by the end of current fiscal year.

UNI BAS JT DS1355