Govt mulls declaring disaster-prone areas as ‘no-construction zones’ to prevent future losses
With large parts of the Valley reeling under flood-like conditions yet again, the Jammu and Kashmir administration is considering declaring disaster-prone zones as “no-construction areas” to minimize future damage and protect vulnerable populations.
This is the seventh time since 2014 that Jammu and Kashmir has faced flood like situation. The latest spell of incessant rains has inundated several areas in Pulwama, Anantnag, Budgam, and Srinagar, leaving hundreds of people stranded and triggering ongoing rescue operations.
Officials admit that certain areas across the Valley have repeatedly borne the brunt of floods whenever heavy downpour occurs. These include low-lying pockets and regions situated along the Jhelum and its tributaries.
“Majority areas of the Valley, especially Sonawari, Awantipora and Srinagar are prone to floods,” a government report says.
A senior government official told news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS) that the administration has decided to map out all such “disaster-prone and vulnerable” areas.
“Residential colonies must be raised at safer locations. People living in risk-prone areas will gradually be rehabilitated elsewhere in Kashmir. The same is being done in Jammu region especially in Reasi, Ramba and Doda districts,” the official said.
He further said that various departments have been asked to submit detailed reports identifying localities that face recurrent flooding and landslides. “Once reports are received, no construction activity would be permitted in such zones. A regulatory framework will be put in place that discourages fresh settlements or commercial activity in danger-prone areas,” the official emphasized.
Experts have long warned that Kashmir Valley remains highly vulnerable to multiple hazards.
At least 13 districts of J&K figure among the 100 ‘multi-hazard districts’ identified across India. Alongside floods, landslides, avalanches, and earthquakes continue to threaten lives and infrastructure.
Environmentalists argue that unregulated urban expansion along riverbanks, rampant encroachments on wetlands, and deforestation have further worsened the situation. They stress that without strict zoning laws, the Valley will remain exposed to recurring disasters.
The 2014 floods, considered the worst in a century, had devastated Srinagar and surrounding districts, causing massive displacement and loss of property. More than a decade later, the Valley finds itself facing similar threats with alarming frequency. (KINS) Ishtiyaq Kar
