Centre asks J-K govt to post list of rescued people

New Delhi, Sept 9: As families and friends struggle for information about the whereabouts of their missing kin in flood-hit

, the Centre has asked the state government to post on its website the list of people rescued from different parts of the state.

Union Home Secretary Anil Goswami said if the list of rescued people is made public, many families will heave sigh of relief on being assured that their loved ones are safe.

"That is why we have asked the state government to upload the list of rescued people on its website as early as possible," he told reporters here. Goswami said anger of some of the flood-affected people about delay in rescue team reaching them was justified but the disaster was "unprecedented".

"It's a "huge tragedy" and the authorities were doing their best to reach out to as many people as they can", he added. "The highest authority of the land -- beginning from the Prime Minister and the Home Minister -- are constantly monitoring the situation and giving directions that all steps must be taken to ensure that whatever assistance required is rendered for rescue and relief of affected people," he said.

The Home Secretary said the central government will provide the state government whatever assistance they require. "We are here to assist more than 100 per cent. You tell us whatever you need, we will provide you," he said. Goswami said that apart from rescuing marooned people and providing relief to flood-affected people, authorities are giving great emphasis on restoration of power connection in the Valley, particularly in Srinagar, and telecomunication network.

"We are trying our best. When light comes, there will be cheers. People will be able to charge their mobile phones and could connect with families and friends. The moment power comes, half of the anger will go away. So, this is a matter of great urgency. A lot of emphasis is given on restoration of power supply and telephone network," he said.

PTI