Floods in Kashmir leave 200,000 people isolated

(Baonghean.vn) - According to the latest information, floods in recent days in northern India and Pakistan have killed at least 480 people. On Saturday, September 13, more than 200,000 people were still stranded by floodwaters in Kashmir, India.

On both sides of the border, one can see villages being swept away by floodwaters or helicopters or boats taking turns evacuating people stranded on rooftops.

Flood victims in Punjab, India on September 13 / Photo: Zohra Bensemra

Since Saturday, the water levels in Kashmir have begun to recede. And the extent of the devastation caused by the floods in this Himalayan region is clear.

The displaced are living in tents and are worried about the slow pace of government aid. On Saturday, facing mounting criticism, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the government would rebuild homes before the harsh winter sets in. There are currently 137 relief camps in the Kashmir valley, home to about 100,000 people.

One question that will arise after the floodwaters recede is the health of those affected by the disaster. Omar Abdullah also said that “clean water is an issue”. He has “asked the authorities to provide adequate medical supplies” to prevent the risk of disease.

According to the government announcement, each family whose house was destroyed will soon receive 75,000 rupees (equivalent to 1,000 euros) to rebuild their house as well as free food rations for 6 months.

Chu Thanh