Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday raised serious questions over alleged irregularities in the utilization of flood protection funds for Kashmir sanctioned by the World Bank. He sought details of utilisation of these funds.
Addressing a gathering in Srinagar, Omar said that despite repeated assurances, no substantial flood-mitigation measures were undertaken in the aftermath of the 2014 floods. “Tell us what concrete steps were taken to safeguard Srinagar from future floods? What projects were executed, and where did the World Bank money go?” he asked.
“Who embezzled money meant for dredging of Jhelum and Wular projects?” he questioned, adding that PDP-BJP government must be held accountable.
Referring to recent heavy rains in Srinagar, Omar said the city was on the verge of flooding again. “It didn’t even rain for two days, and the embankments started giving way. If it had rained 24 hours more, Srinagar would have drowned,” he said.
The Srinagar city remains as vulnerable to floods as it was a decade ago. “Even after spending years and vast sums, there is no visible improvement in flood control infrastructure. The dredging of the River Jhelum and the Flood Spill Channel remains incomplete and riddled with irregularities,” he remarked.
On traffic congestion along the Boulevard stretch near Dal Lake, Omar said the administration is exploring the construction of a tunnel between Dal Gate and Nehru Park. “We will seek central assistance. If tunnels can be built in Jammu, Poonch and Kishtwar, why not in the heart of Srinagar?” he added.
Reiterating his government’s commitment to public welfare, he highlighted schemes like free bus rides for women and stated that his administration does not discriminate on religious or regional basis. “We work for rights, not religion, caste or community. Our intention is honest and we will fulfil our promises,” he added.