Decade on, CM Omar orders Audit of Flood Control Works
I&FC Dept to Account for Dredging, Embankments and De-silting Since 2014 Deluge
By: Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: Nearly a decade after the catastrophic 2014 floods, the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department will face a detailed audit of the works it claims to have undertaken for flood prevention in Kashmir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is scheduled to chair a crucial meeting next week to review the department’s performance and preparedness.
The audit will cover dredging of the Jhelum, strengthening of river embankments, and de-silting of flood spill channels—works that officials had promised would safeguard the Valley against future disasters.
“We need a clear and transparent account of what has actually been done on the ground,” a senior government official said.
“Public confidence has been shaken, and it is important to ensure accountability for every penny spent since 2014,” he added.
An officer from the I&FC Department, however, maintained that significant progress has been achieved.
“Dredging of the Jhelum has been carried out at several stretches, embankments have been repaired, and spill channels have been de-silted. But yes, more needs to be done, especially in vulnerable pockets,” the officer said.
Omar Abdullah, sources said, has made it clear that the review will not be a routine meeting.
“The Chief Minister wants facts, figures, and a timeline of works executed. He has directed departments to come fully prepared,” another official added.
The upcoming review is expected to answer long-pending public questions about whether the Valley is truly better prepared today than it was in 2014.
