CPI(M) asks Centre to rush relief to flood-hit Jammu and Kashmir

NEW DELHI: Expressing concern over the havoc caused by heavy floods in Jammu and Kashmir, CPI(M) today asked the Centre to rush relief to the affected areas and assure compensation for the losses suffered by the people.

"Several districts in Jammu and the Valley have been very badly affected by the incessant rain and rising waters of the rivers to alarming levels. Many precious lives have been lost and property damaged and cattle killed. Thousand of people have been rendered homeless in both regions," the party Politburo said here.

Noting that the state government and the army have moved in to provide rescue and relief operations, it said "much more needs to be done."

Observing that some villages in south Kashmir have been submerged, the CPI(M) said rescue operations needed to be conducted immediately to save precious lives.

The Centre "must immediately rush relief to the affected areas. People have to be assured that full compensation for their losses will be given to them," the party said, while offering condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families.