Shrine Board Extends Flood Relief for Second Day, Assists Over 1,200 Families in Reasi, Udhampur

Katra, Sept 4: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) on Wednesday continued its relief and rehabilitation efforts for the second consecutive day, providing essential supplies to families affected by recent floods and landslides in Reasi and Udhampur districts. The drive is being carried out on the directions of the Shrine Board Chairman and Lieutenant Governor of J&K, Manoj Sinha.

According to officials, the relief materials included dry ration kits, utensils, blankets, tarpaulins, tents and other essential items for immediate use. The supplies were formally handed over to the district administrations of Reasi and Udhampur for distribution among affected families on priority. The Shrine Board has already reached out to more than 1,200 families and is surpassing its initial target in the number of households being covered.

Teams from the Shrine Board, in coordination with local administration, visited dozens of affected villages in and around Katra to distribute relief supplies and assess ground realities. Temporary shelter facilities have also been set up at Shakti Bhawan and Niharika for displaced families from Purana Daroor village. At these shelters, free meals are being provided to ensure safe and secure conditions for the displaced population.

Residents expressed their gratitude, saying the Shrine Board had gone beyond its religious mandate to stand with the local communities in a time of crisis. “The Board has not only fulfilled its social responsibility but has also shown genuine compassion and service,” villagers said.

The recent spell of heavy rains triggered floods and landslides across several villages of Reasi and Udhampur, causing severe disruption to local life. In response, the Shrine Board pledged to actively support relief and rehabilitation measures alongside the administration.

Officials said the Shrine Board, while primarily tasked with facilitating pilgrimage for millions of devotees every year, has consistently placed equal importance on community welfare. The ongoing campaign, they added, reflects its commitment to humanitarian service and social responsibility.