Unseasonal snowfall in the higher reaches of Kashmir Valley which led to considerable drop in the day temperature has left hundreds of tribal families in distress as they suffer huge loss of their livestock.
Cold wave conditions have engulfed the upper reaches of Kashmir, triggering panic among the tribal families who have migrated and arrived different high altitude meadows of valley recently. These high altitude and vast grazing meadows remain inhabited by the nomads during summers.
“Several high alpine pastures have received unexpected fresh snowfall. The livestock has already reached their summer destinations some 20 days back. If the weather continues to remain same, situation can worsen,” an official told a local news agency, Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Reports gathered by KNO said that almost in the every area of Kashmir the tribal families suffered huge loss which the government is still assessing due to unseasonal snowfall in the higher reaches of the valley.
“35-40 tribal nomadic families reached out with Rescue and relief material by ours teams , 4000 mts altitude at Kausarnag, Mahinag, Kungwattan. Kudos to the teams of revenue, sheep husbandry, forest and SDRF,” District magistrate Kupwara informed in a tweet.
“In view of loss of livestock and property in highland pastures affecting the livelihood of tribal families the assessment is under way and Govt has initiated steps for working out compensation and support. District Administration in all districts have deputed inter-deptt teams,” informed Tribal Affairs department of J-K.
“Joint team of civil administration, police, army reached higher reaches in Kulgam, Shopian, Reasi district where nomadic population residing there from Rajauri,Poonch & Reasi district & provide relief material to migratory families in Kaligali, Gogera, Mahinag and Kausernag, Tilo Dhok,” said Divisional Commissioner Jammu.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed Deputy Commissioners to provide immediate assistance to affected families while further assistance will be considered on priority after assessment by districts and inter-departmental teams.
“Deeply anguished by the loss of livestock of tribal families due to unprecedented & unseasonal rains. Directed DCs to provide immediate assistance to affected families. Further assistance will be considered on priority after assessment by districts & inter-departmental teams,” the LG said in a tweet. (KNO)
