Urgent Appeal for Relief as Windstorm Ravages Budgam’s Khag and Surrounding Villages

Tanveer Hussain

Budgam, June 8 : An urgent appeal has been made to the Deputy Commissioner of Budgam to dispatch assessment teams to Khag and its surrounding villages following a severe windstorm that struck late Sunday night, causing extensive damage across the Kashmir Valley.

The storm, accompanied by intense thundershowers and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–60 km/h, left a significant trail of destruction, particularly in Budgam district.

Widespread destruction has been reported from multiple areas, with social media flooded with videos showing rooftops being torn off and critical infrastructure damaged. One particularly striking video showed the roof of a commercial building being ripped away by powerful winds, underscoring the storm’s intensity.

In villages such as Lassipora, Khag, Khanpora, Kanchtipora, Habbar, Kangripora, and others, residents reported severe structural damage. Many homes, especially those belonging to economically disadvantaged families, had their rooftops blown off, rendering them vulnerable and unsafe.

Additionally, apple orchard a vital source of livelihood for many in the region—have suffered heavy damage, further compounding the crisis for local residents.

Local communities have issued an urgent call for the Budgam district administration to begin immediate relief and rehabilitation operations. Key demands include:

Provision of construction materials to rebuild damaged homesTemporary shelters for those who have been displaced

Residents voiced strong criticism over what they described as a lack of disaster preparedness and a sluggish response from authorities. Many stressed the urgent need for a more robust and proactive disaster management framework, particularly tailored for vulnerable rural and remote areas.

Authorities have advised residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions fully stabilize. While no injuries have been reported at this time, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

The local administration is being urged to act swiftly to assess the losses and extend immediate support to the affected population. With monsoon season approaching, residents fear that any delay in relief efforts could further exacerbate their suffering.

Stay safe and follow official advisories for updates.