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Indian Army’s Tiger Division engineers construct 110-ft Bailey Bridge over Tawi River in less than 12 hours

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a remarkable display of engineering prowess and operational efficiency, the Engineers of the Tiger Division, Indian Army, successfully constructed a 110-feet Bailey bridge over the Tawi River in less than 12 hours, restoring vital connectivity in the region.

“The completion of Tawi Bridge No. 4 in less than 12 hours is a testament to the dedication, skill, and resilience of our engineers,” Major General Mukesh Bhanwala, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Tiger Division, as reported by KNO, said while addressing the media persons here.

He highlighted the significance of this achievement, saying the bridge, designated as Tawi Bridge No. 4, was completed under extremely challenging conditions, including washed-out approaches and limited workspace, showcasing the indomitable spirit and technical expertise of the Indian Army.

The construction of the Bailey bridge was necessitated after the original structure was rendered impassable due to recent flooding and adverse weather conditions.

The modular and portable design of the Bailey bridge, a proven engineering solution since World War II, enabled the Tiger Division Engineers to swiftly assemble the structure without the need for heavy equipment or cranes, despite the constrained environment.

The bridge, with a load-bearing capacity sufficient for vehicular traffic, has re-established seamless movement for both military and civilian transport, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of essential supplies and relief materials.

“Despite washed-out approaches and limited workspace, our teams worked tirelessly through the night to ensure connectivity was restored at the earliest,” Major Bhanwala said. “This bridge is not just a structure; it is a lifeline for the people of the region and a symbol of the Indian Army’s commitment to serving the nation in times of need.”

He further elaborated on the operational challenges, saying, “The adverse conditions tested our resolve, but our Engineers, with their unparalleled training and teamwork, overcame every obstacle. This operation underscores the Indian Army’s capability to execute critical infrastructure projects under pressure, ensuring mobility and support for both our forces and the civilian population.”

The swift construction of the Bailey bridge aligns with the Indian Army’s ethos of rapid response and self-reliance, contributing to the restoration of normalcy in the affected areas, the GOC of the Tiger Division said. (KNO)

Amit Shah to visit Jammu, asses situation in flood-hit areas

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, is scheduled to undertake a two-day visit to Jammu on August 31 and September 1 to assess the situation in the flood-affected areas of the region.

Official sources told KNO that during his visit Shah will conduct an aerial survey of the flood-affected areas to evaluate the extent of the damage caused by recent flooding.

“He will also hold meetings with senior officials of the Jammu and Kashmir administration to review relief and rehabilitation efforts and ensure swift assistance to those impacted,” sources said, adding, “The Union Home Minister will engage with local authorities to discuss measures for immediate relief, restoration of essential services, and long-term strategies to mitigate future flood risks.”

His visit aims to reaffirm the Government of India’s solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir and ensure coordinated efforts between the Central and Union Territory administrations for effective disaster response.

Pertinently, the Union Home Minister has been in touch with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah since the day weather has turned inclement and Jammu region has been hit by cloudbursts and landslides.

Shah’s visit underscores the Central Government’s commitment to supporting the people of Jammu and Kashmir during this challenging time.

LG Sinha has briefed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on the flood situation and the ongoing relief and rescue operations in various districts of flood hit Jammu region.

He has directed the officials for maximum readiness and presence of staff at their posts to respond to emergency situations. (KNO)

‘Operation Sindoor’ defining moment in global fight against terrorism: Prez Murmu

Kashmir Leader Desk
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New Delhi: Terming ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a defining moment in the global fight against terrorism, President Droupadi Murmu on Friday said that Indian armed forces scripted “golden chapter” in the story of humanity’s resilience by taking on perpetrators inside their dens.

Speaking at the SCOPE Eminence Awards ceremony here, Prez Murmu, according to KNO, credited India’s Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) for their pivotal role in the development of the indigenous Akashteer Air Defence Control and Reporting System, which proved critical during the military confrontation with Pakistan. “The home-grown system showcased its effectiveness by neutralising threats during the high-stakes operation in Kashmir. The system performed with unmatched precision, eliminating terror threats and protecting national security. Its success is a proud moment for India’s defence and industrial ecosystem,” she added.

The President underlined that public sector enterprises are not just economic units but strategic assets contributing directly to national security and self-reliance. She noted that the performance of PSUs over the last decade has seen consistent growth, with nearly 75% of them reporting profits.

Their strong financial track record, along with innovations in various sectors, signals their central role in India’s future development.

Describing them as “pillars of prosperity” and “catalysts of growth,” President Murmu praised PSUs for setting high standards in governance, transparency, and social responsibility.

She acknowledged their expanding footprint in major national missions, especially Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, and highlighted their increasing influence in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, exploration, and services.

Referring to the government’s goal of building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, she said that public sector enterprises are key to turning that vision into reality. Their role in not only driving economic growth but also ensuring strategic autonomy, particularly in defence and infrastructure, has become more important than ever.

President Murmu also spoke about the need for inclusive growth, stressing the importance of women-led development as a national priority. She acknowledged the challenges faced by women in leadership and said empowering them is vital to achieving holistic progress.

The SCOPE Eminence Awards, presented by the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE), honoured outstanding contributions by PSUs in areas such as innovation, governance, sustainability, and national service. (KNO)

Vaishno Devi Board denies disregarding weather advisories, says yatra halted before cloudburst

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has expressed deep sorrow and pain at the unfortunate loss of lives of pilgrims in the natural disaster on August 26, and has placed on record the correct factual position to dispel the impression being created by the insinuating media reports.

In a statement issued to KNO, the SMVDSB categorically denied the allegations as false and baseless. “A few media reports have been circulating since yesterday alleging that Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra was allowed to proceed in complete disregard to weather advisories and at the expense of pilgrim safety,” it said, adding, “The weather conditions had remained clear and conducive for pilgrimage on 26th August morning until around 10:00 AM, during which time the yatra proceeded normally, so much so that even the helicopter services were operating seamlessly during that time.

In fact, the Board had made elaborate arrangements of positioning its enforcement staff and Disaster Management Task Force along the entire track as per its established standard operating procedure.”

“The Board monitored weather updates closely and as soon as the forecast for moderate rains was received, registrations were immediately suspended. Majority of the yatris were moving down the track after completing darshan at the Holy Cave Shrine. Thousands of yatris en-route had smoothly completed their pilgrimage back to Katra by then. However, many pilgrims stayed on in the shelter sheds en-route at designated halt points on the old track. These are those points/ stretches which have never been susceptible to landslides in the past.

These halt points have been specifically created in the safest zones of the track, for pilgrim safety,” the statement said.

“The new track between Katra and Adhkwari (through Tarakote), which is susceptible to landslides and weather-related disruptions, had already been closed since 24th August in the interest of pilgrim safety. The old track, which is generally secure and not prone to slides/ shooting stones (having stabilized over the last many decades), was kept open for pilgrim movement with a close watch on weather conditions. Even yatra on this track was suspended by 12:00 noon on 26th August upon issuance of the specific weather advisory.,” it said.

“The location where this unfortunate disaster happened was near Inderprastha Bhojanalaya on the old track. This is one of the safest locations on the track. However, nature’s fury struck in the form of sudden severe cloudburst in this stretch of around 50 meters only, which triggered the massive landslide at 2:40 PM. It was unpredictable and unforeseen from any count. No such event of land slide has ever been recorded in this area in the past. The event was a force majeure,” the statement added.

“The Shrine Board’s Disaster Management Task Force which was spread along the track immediately responded in close coordination with District Administration, Reasi, J&K Police, CRPF, Army, NDRF, SDRF, and volunteers, launching swift evacuation and relief operations. 18 pilgrims who had sustained injuries were safely evacuated and shifted for superspecialty care in Shrine Board’s Hospital at Kakryal after giving them first aid along the track,” it said.

“Stranded pilgrims were safely evacuated to Katra through Tarakot Marg by the evening of 26th August. Simultaneously debris clearance, slope inspection, and stabilization were undertaken on a war footing. The Board has, over the years, taken concerted steps to undertake slope stabilization and mountain binding activities. Robust shelter sheds to guard against stray shooting stones have been laid along almost the entire track,” the statement said.

“The Board reiterates that every reasonable precaution was taken keeping in view weather forecasts. The unfortunate cloudburst resulting in loss of precious lives was not humanly foreseeable and was thus, beyond anyone’s anticipation or control. The Board has at all times acted strictly in line with official weather forecasts and advisories, with pilgrim safety and well-being as its foremost priority.

The Shrine Board stands firmly with the bereaved families in this hour of grief and every possible assistance will be provided to the NoKs of the deceased devotees. Injured are being provided with the best possible medical treatment and the Shrine Board prays to Mata Vaishno Devi for their quick recovery,” it added. (KNO)

Will come up with permanent solution for flood crisis in valley: Govt

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The government on Thursday said the situation is under control in Jammu & Kashmir and that it will come up with a permanent solution to end the flood crisis in Kashmir.

Talking to the reporters here, Javed Ahmad Rana, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment and Tribal Affairs Departments, said the people of Kashmir will get good news soon. “We will come up with a permanent solution for resolving the flood crisis in Kashmir,” Rana said, as per KNO.

“The situation is under control,” Rana said. “Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally toured the Jammu division to assess the situation and passed several instructions for relief and other measures.”

He said that in Kashmir, the Advisor to the Chief Minister and others have been monitoring the situation closely. “We hope for an improvement in the weather conditions. We received some opinions that could be looked into. The flood issue in Kashmir will be resolved permanently,” the minister said.

He appealed to the people to be cautious and cooperate with the government. “We will take measures to ensure that the people will not face such issues again. The people in Kashmir will get good news very soon,” he said.

Replying to a query, Minister Rana blamed the previous government for the “current mess”, saying that in the past five years, Jhelum too has suffered badly. “We will not go into it, but will come up with a permanent solution,” he said.

Jammu & Kashmir was on the brink of floods as the water level in all the major rivers and streams was flowing above the alert mark following the heavy rains across the region for the past couple of days.

While the weather conditions improved, the water level started receding gradually, eliminating the threat of floods across the region.

The weatherman here has predicted more intermittent rains for the next one week in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in Jammu division. (KNO)

Rising drug overdose cases in J&K raise concern over youth health crisis

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Rising cases of drug overdose have emerged as a grave public health concern across Jammu & Kashmir, with doctors warning that lack of awareness, peer pressure, and untreated mental health issues are pushing many, especially the youth, towards fatal consequences.

Medical experts caution that drug overdose is no longer confined to illicit narcotics alone but also includes the misuse of prescription drugs and sedatives. They say an overdose can cause permanent brain damage, liver and kidney failure, and long-term psychological disorders if not immediately treated.

Speaking to KNO, Dr Aijaz Ahmad, a psychiatrist at Srinagar, said many young people experiment with drugs under peer influence without realising the life-threatening risks involved. “We see a large number of patients who had no history of substance abuse but started due to peer pressure or curiosity. Lack of awareness about the dangers of overdose often turns a one-time trial into a tragedy,” he said.

Doctors point out that mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and trauma are major underlying triggers for substance abuse. Unfortunately, stigma around psychiatric treatment prevents many from seeking timely help. “In many overdose cases, we find a direct link to untreated depression or stress. Instead of professional help, individuals turn to drugs as an escape, which only worsens their condition,” said Dr Shabnam, a clinical psychologist.

According to health officials, drug overdose can result in a cascade of medical emergencies, ranging from respiratory failure and seizures to irreversible damage to vital organs. In some cases, delayed medical intervention has led to fatalities.

They urged for stronger awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, and communities to highlight the dangers of overdose. “The parents should maintain open conversations with their children about mental health and drug abuse,” they said.

Doctors said society must treat addiction as a disease, not a crime. They said early intervention, counselling, and rehabilitation can save countless lives.

According to doctors, overdoses are not always intentional. Sometimes, misuse of prescribed medications or mixing them with alcohol can also trigger dangerous reactions.

They said that immediate effects include breathing difficulty, unconsciousness, coma and long-term effects include permanent brain damage, liver/kidney failure, and psychological disorders, while social impacts include family trauma, financial burden, and increased crime rates.

“People should never take medicines without a doctor’s prescription, avoid mixing drugs with alcohol or other substances, and store medications safely, away from children and vulnerable individuals,” the doctors said.

They called for spreading awareness about drug abuse in schools and colleges and seeking professional help for addiction and mental health issues. (KNO)

‘We may have to shift businesses’: Rotten meat scandal leaves street food markets deserted

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The recent rotten meat scandal in Jammu & Kashmir has cast a long shadow over the valley’s vibrant street food culture, forcing evening markets to go quiet and leaving vendors struggling to survive.

From Srinagar to Sopore, stalls that once bustled with customers craving traditional delicacies like rista and tujji now stand largely deserted, a scene observed by KNO, during an evening visit.

In Sopore, the usually lively Chankhan Market, considered a hub of street food and famous for staying open late into the night, wears a deserted look. At Main Chowk too, where dozens of food carts once competed for space and customers, only a handful of vendors are seen waiting anxiously for buyers.

“I managed to sell just four seekh tujji in four hours,” said a well-known cart vendor in Sopore. “We don’t know what our fault is. A few people made mistakes; now everyone is paying the price.”

The scandal, which broke earlier this month after Food Safety Department raids led to the seizure of large quantities of rotten and unfit-for-consumption meat, has triggered widespread mistrust among consumers.

Authorities vowed strict action against those involved, but for many small vendors, the damage is already done.

“We are on the verge of shutting down or shifting our businesses,” said another vendor in Chankhan. “People are too scared to eat from outside now. Trust, once broken, takes years to return”.

“We don’t know which outlet is safe anymore,” said Faisal War, a young foodie from Sopore. “Until the government gives clear assurance and strict checks are seen on the ground, we will avoid eating meat outside.”

Meanwhile, officials said the crackdown was essential to protect public health and restore confidence.

Smita Sethi, Commissioner, Food & Drugs Administration, J&K, earlier assured that strict enforcement will continue to safeguard consumers across Jammu and Kashmir, with strict compliance with FSSAI rules for the sale of frozen meat and chicken products.

Vendors now hope that stricter checks and government assurances will gradually bring their customers back. “Street food is our culture, our livelihood,” said Omar, a young vendor. “We just hope people don’t give up on us forever.” (KNO)

Uneasy calm ends as flood threat eases in J&K

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar/Jammu: After an uneasy calm over the flood threat for the last two days across Jammu & Kashmir, the situation has eased in both regions on Thursday, as the water levels in almost all rivers and streams have receded to a large extent, settling below the alert mark at most places.

People in Jammu as well as in Kashmir, especially those living close to water bodies, had sleepless nights over the last two days, fearing a 2014-like situation when the whole valley flooded, causing extensive losses across J&K.

According to details obtained by KNO, after receiving the highest-ever 380 mm of rainfall in 24 hours until yesterday morning, Jammu has shown improvement in weather conditions, with only 5.6 mm of rainfall recorded till this morning, and no precipitation recorded until the evening today.

Other stations, including Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, also recorded no precipitation since this morning, allowing water levels to recede and thereby eliminating the threat of floods across the region.

An independent weather forecaster, Faizan Airf Keng, told KNO that the water level has receded significantly, settling below the alert level. He said that the water level in Jammu is near normal, adding that in Kashmir, it remains above normal.

The water level in the Jhelum at Pampore is still above the flood declaration mark. It was recorded at 1587.674 m, while the flood declaration mark is 1587.184 m.

Similarly, at Ram Munshi Bagh, the water was flowing at 18.21 ft, which is 0.21 ft above the flood declaration mark. However, the water level has been constantly receding at both locations.

Moreover, at other stations, including Sangam and Asham, water levels are well below the flood declaration mark, eliminating the flood threat across the valley.

Earlier in the day, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Anshul Garg, said the administration is on full alert, with all departments working together to ensure the safety of people amid monsoon rains.

He said the public has shown remarkable patience over the last few days. “Teams from the Army, Police, SDRF, and civil administration are deployed on the ground. The Flood Control Department is keeping a strict watch on the Jhelum and its tributaries,” Garg said.

Notably, while the flood threat is nearly over in Kashmir, the weather forecast predicts intermittent rains till September 6.

Director of the Meteorological Department, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said that a brief spell of rain and thunder is expected at a few places, mainly late afternoon and late night tomorrow.

“From August 30 to September 1, a spell of light to moderate rain, scattered to fairly widespread, with the possibility of moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms, is expected in a few districts of Jammu division,” he said. “From September 2 to 6, a brief spell of rain and thunderstorms is forecast at a few places.”

The MeT has issued an advisory, warning of the possibility of moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms at a few places in the Jammu division from the early morning of August 30 to late night of September 1, and again early morning on September 2.

It also warns of potential landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, etc., at vulnerable locations, advising people to stay away from water bodies, nallas, river embankments, and loose structures. (KNO)

Thousands throng Nowhatta, offer ‘Khoja Digar’

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: A wave of faith swept through Shehr-e-Khaas on Thursday afternoon as thousands of devotees gathered at Hazrat Naqshband Sahib (RA) Shrine in Nowhatta to offer the annual ‘Khoja Digar’ here.

From narrow lanes to the main chowk, men, women and children from across the valley turned up to offer the special annual prayers.

As per the details available with KNO, as the clock touched 3 pm, the devotees began arriving, spreading prayer mats and waiting to participate in the special prayer.

“For me, this place is so peaceful that my heart relaxes when I offer prayer here, especially during the annual Khoja Digar,” said Ghulam Ahmad from Srinagar, who has been visiting the shrine for years.

Elderly resident Gulzar Ahmad from Budgam added, he has been visiting here since he was a child. “My mother brought me, and now I bring my grandchildren here. This prayer has seen us through life’s toughest moments. Today, I pray for the health of my family and peace in our valley,” he said.

Similarly, local residents also opened their homes to visitors, offering tea and snacks.

“On the occasion of Khoja Digar, we prepare refreshments for devotees to express our love for the shrine. Our doors are open for everyone,” said Mukhtar Ahmad, a Nowhatta resident.

Mothers were seen holding their children’s hands as the chowk overflowed with devotees.

Meanwhile, the administration had ensured smooth arrangements for the prayers.

Notably, the shrine holds deep historical significance. After Khawja Khawand Mahmood’s death in 1640 in Lahore, his son Khawaja Moin-Ud-Din Naqshbandi came to Kashmir to manage the shrine. He died in 1674 and was buried here. It is also believed that the holy relic of Prophet Mohammad’s (PBUH) hair was first kept at this shrine in 1699.

Moreover, as the muezzin’s call echoed across Nowhatta, devotion filled the air, and thousands joined together in prayer, marking yet another year of faith and tradition at Hazrat Naqshband Sahib (RA) Shrine.

The gathering was addressed by the Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir, Molvi Umar Farooq. He highlighted the teachings of Prophet Islam on the occasion. (KNO)

Schools in Kashmir to reopen tomorrow; Jammu divisions remain closed till Aug-30

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Schools in Kashmir division are all set to re-open tomorrow following the closure of two days.

A top official informed KNO, “We have decided to reopen all schools in Kashmir division on Friday.”

In the meantime, the director of school education of Jammu has ordered that all Government and private schools across the division shall remain closed up to 30th August 2025.

DSEJ has said that in view of the continuous and heavy rainfall being experienced across various parts of Jammu Division, the region has witnessed multiple weather-induced disruptions which have signiflcantly impacted day-to-day life and the safe functioning of educational institutions. (KNO)

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