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J&K Weather Update: Dry conditions to prevail until January 16, Light snow forecasted in higher reaches

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 11(NVI): The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar has forecasted predominantly dry and clear weather across Jammu and Kashmir until January 16, with a few variations in conditions over the coming days.

On January 12, skies are expected to be partly cloudy, with occasional sunshine breaking through. By January 13, the region will experience mainly clear skies and dry weather throughout the day.

On January 14, the forecast suggests generally cloudy skies; however, the weather will remain dry. A slight shift is expected between January 15 and 16, with predominantly cloudy conditions and the possibility of light snowfall in isolated higher-altitude areas during the early morning hours of January 16.

Looking further ahead, the weather from January 17 to 19 is anticipated to remain generally cloudy, with no significant changes or major disturbances expected.

The Meteorological Centre has issued an advisory urging tourists, travelers, and transporters to strictly adhere to administrative and traffic guidelines, especially in areas prone to snowfall. This precautionary measure aims to ensure safety and avoid disruptions, particularly in higher elevations that may experience light snow.

If you are planning to travel in the region, it is advisable to stay updated on weather conditions and road advisories to ensure a smooth and safe journey.(News Vibes of India)

PM Modi Excited for Z-Morh tunnel inauguration, CM Omar reviews preparations in Sonamarg

File Photo : CM Omar Abdullah & PM Narendra Modi

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 11(NVI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed excitement ahead of his visit to Jammu and Kashmir on January 13, where he will inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel in Sonamarg, central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.

“I am eagerly awaiting my visit to Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir, for the tunnel inauguration. You rightly point out the benefits for tourism and the local economy. Also, loved the aerial pictures and videos!” PM Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter) in response to a post by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited Sonamarg to oversee the preparations for the high-profile event. Sharing details on X, Omar emphasized the tunnel’s transformative impact.

“The inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel will keep Sonamarg open to tourists year-round. It will also be developed into a world-class ski resort. The local population will no longer need to migrate during winters, and travel time between Srinagar and Kargil/Leh will be significantly reduced,” Omar wrote.

The 6.5-kilometer Z-Morh Tunnel, an engineering marvel, is set to revolutionize connectivity by providing all-weather access to Sonamarg, previously cut off during winters due to heavy snowfall. The project is expected to boost tourism, generate employment, and strengthen economic growth in the region.

With excitement building for the January 13 inauguration, the tunnel is being hailed as a major milestone in Jammu and Kashmir’s development.(News Vibes of India)

Srinagar leads J&K in launching SMILE scheme for marginalized communities

File Photo : Deputy Commissioner(DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 11(NVI): In a landmark step towards social welfare and inclusion, Srinagar has become the first district in Jammu and Kashmir to implement the SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) scheme under the Government of India.

Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, inaugurated a fully equipped rehabilitation home for marginalized individuals, marking the district’s commitment to addressing societal challenges with compassion and innovation.

“This is the first time in J&K that this scheme is being implemented, and Srinagar is leading the way. It is a comprehensive initiative addressing the issue of begging and providing an alternative path for rehabilitation,” said Dr. Bilal.

The newly established rehabilitation home has an initial capacity of 50 individuals, with plans for future expansion. Dr. Bilal emphasized the shift from punitive measures to welfare-driven solutions, stating, “Previously, under the J&K Provincial Baggery Act of 1960, begging was criminalized. The High Court, however, struck down the Act, reinforcing the welfare state’s role in addressing such issues.”

The SMILE scheme, launched by the Government of India, adheres to human rights guidelines outlined by the National Human Rights Commission and the Supreme Court. It focuses on two primary areas: comprehensive rehabilitation for transgender individuals and support for those engaged in begging.

The District Social Welfare Officer (DSW), in collaboration with NGO Inpallant Paryas, will oversee the implementation of the scheme. The rehabilitation home offers shelter, food, and skill development opportunities to empower beneficiaries.

“This is not just a shelter but a place of empowerment. We aim to train individuals in skills such as tailoring, boutique work, cutting, and bulb-making to integrate them into employment or enterprise,” Dr. Bilal added.

Additionally, efforts are being made to enroll children previously involved in begging into schools, ensuring their long-term well-being. “Connecting these children to education is a critical part of this initiative, reflecting the true essence of a welfare state,” he noted.

Dr. Bilal expressed satisfaction with the efforts of his team, highlighting that this initiative marks a turning point for Srinagar. “The district administration now has an alternative to arresting individuals for begging. This rehabilitation effort reflects our commitment to compassion and responsibility.”

With the infrastructure and framework in place, the district will now begin rehabilitating individuals under the SMILE scheme. “This initiative will bring meaningful change to the lives of marginalized individuals, fostering dignity and hope,” concluded Dr. Bilal.

This pioneering effort by Srinagar is expected to set a precedent for other districts in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society. (News Vibes of India)

Kashmir on high alert Ahead of PM Modi’s Visit, Z-Morh Tunnel Secured for Jan 13 Inauguration

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 11(NVI):Security arrangements have been intensified across Kashmir as Prime Minister Narendra Modi gears up to visit the Union Territory on January 13 to inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel, a key infrastructure project in the Ganderbal district.

Specialized security forces have taken charge of the site, ensuring foolproof arrangements for the high-profile event. The Z-Morh Tunnel, a strategic all-weather corridor, will connect the Sonamarg region with the rest of the valley, providing uninterrupted access even during heavy snowfall. The project is expected to significantly enhance tourism and improve the livelihoods of local residents.

Authorities have deployed multi-tiered security measures, including the Special Protection Group (SPG), paramilitary forces, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, who are conducting extensive checks along travel routes and at the venue. Surveillance drones and anti-sabotage teams have also been engaged to prevent any untoward incidents.

Officials are confident about the success of the event, which comes amid increased developmental efforts in the region. The Z-Morh Tunnel inauguration marks a major step in boosting connectivity and economic growth, symbolizing the government’s commitment to empowering remote areas in Jammu and Kashmir.(News Vibes of India)

J&K Government to fill 281 vacancies in Jal Shakti, allied departments

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 11(NVI): In a major push to strengthen public service delivery, the Jammu and Kashmir government has announced a recruitment drive to fill 281 vacancies across the Jal Shakti Department and its allied divisions.

The available positions include Junior Engineers (Civil), Junior Assistants, Junior Stenographers, and Works Supervisors, distributed under various pay levels and cadres. These vacancies have been determined based on sanctioned strength, existing staff positions, and current requirements in the departments.

The largest share of openings—202 posts—is for Junior Engineer (Civil) under Pay Level-6 (UT Cadre) for the Jal Shakti Department. These engineers will play a key role in upgrading and maintaining the water infrastructure across the Union Territory.

Breakdown of Vacancies

Junior Assistant (Pay Level-4):

12 posts in Division Jammu.

Posts for Division Kashmir to be announced.

Junior Stenographer (Pay Level 6-B):

15 posts across the PHE and Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) departments in Jammu and Kashmir. Works Supervisor (SL-1): 24 posts for PHE Jammu.

8 posts for I&FC Jammu, 12 posts for PHE Kashmir,7 posts for I&FC Kashmir.

The government has assured a transparent and merit-based recruitment process to ensure fair opportunities for all eligible candidates. Officials said the initiative is aimed at addressing staffing shortages and enhancing the operational efficiency of key public departments.

The announcement has been welcomed by job seekers, who see it as a significant opportunity for employment and contributing to the region’s development.

Further details about the application process and eligibility criteria will be made available on official platforms soon.(News Vibes of India)

 

BLA claims responsibility for multiple attacks in Balochistan

Fighters of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) at some undisclosed location. File Pic

Quetta (Balochistan), Jan 10 (NVI) Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) tonight said it targeted the occupying Pakistan Army, senior administrative officers and a police station in seven separate operations in Kolpur, Zehri, Zamuran, Kalat and Hub areas of Balochistan since last night.

The freedom fighters also set up blockade on the main highway, captured the forces’ post, seized their weapons and destroyed the factory of an exploitative company, it said.

BLA freedom fighters set up a blockade on the main highway in Kolpur last night, its spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said.

The blockade continued from 8 PM to 11 PM, the spokesman said, adding that during this time, the freedom fighters conducted snap checks of vehicles on the highway.

Meanwhile, another squad of freedom fighters captured the Levies post on the highway and arrested four personnel present there.

They were later released after being warned, as they were Baloch, while three Kalashnikovs were seized from the personnel, he said.

The third squad of fighters destroyed and set fire to all the machinery of the exploitative construction company at the said location.

Today, at sunset, Baloch Liberation Army freedom fighters targeted the vehicle of the Assistant Commissioner at Chashma in Zehri with a remote-controlled IED attack.

The Assistant Commissioner’s vehicle was targeted when he arrived from Khuzdar city on a visit to the checkpoints with the QRF.

Baloch Liberation Army fighters targeted Pakistani Army personnel on foot in an IED attack in the Kuntgan area of ​​Zamuran on January 8, eliminating one personnel on the spot, Jeeyand Baloch said.

In another operation, Baloch Liberation Army freedom fighters targeted the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kalat city with a hand grenade attack last night, damaging the office building.

BLA fighters also targeted personnel posted at the main gate of the police station in Hub city last night with a hand grenade attack. (NVI)

Woman missing since Oct, was found to have been killed by husband and mother-in-law in Anantnag

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 10 (NVI): A horrifying case of murder has come to light in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, where a woman missing since October 2024 was found to have been killed and her body burned by her husband and mother-in-law to destroy evidence.

The victim, Shabnam Akhtar, a resident of Halmulla Hapatnad, Pahalgam, was allegedly murdered on October 4, 2024, by her husband, Imran Khan, with the assistance of his mother, Noor Hassan. The two accused reportedly disposed of her body by burning it in their cowshed.

The case unraveled during an intense investigation into Shabnam’s disappearance. Imran, 35, confessed to the crime during police questioning. A team of investigators, accompanied by a Duty Magistrate and Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) officials, visited the crime scene and recovered hair, bones, and the victim’s cellphone. These items were sealed and sent for forensic examination.

A formal case (FIR No. 01/2025) has been registered, and both Imran Khan and Noor Hassan have been arrested and sent to jail.

The incident has sparked outrage among locals, who are demanding strict punishment for the perpetrators of this brutal act. (News Vibes of India)

Severe Water Crisis Looms as J&K receives lowest rainfall in 40 years

Representational Pic.

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 10(NVI) Jammu and Kashmir has endured its driest year in over four decades, with rainfall plummeting to just 870.9 mm in 2024, marking a significant 29% deficit from the average annual rainfall of 1232.3 mm.

This is the fifth consecutive year of below-normal precipitation, putting immense pressure on the region’s water resources and raising urgent concerns about its long-term sustainability.

The trend of decreasing rainfall over the past five years paints a troubling picture. Data available with then NVI suggests that in 2023, a 7% shortfall was recorded, followed by 16% in 2022, 28% in 2021, and 20% in 2020. With 2024 figures approaching the region’s historic low of 802.5 mm recorded in 1974, experts warn that climate vulnerability in the region is on the rise.

Monthly data further highlights the severity of the situation. January experienced a shocking 91% deficit, followed by 17% in February and 16% in March. While April saw a brief respite with a 48% surplus, the deficit resumed in May and continued to worsen. By the year’s end, October, November, and December faced extreme shortfalls of 74%, 69%, and 58%, respectively.

The impact of these consistent dry spells is already being felt across various sectors. Agriculture has suffered due to reduced water availability for irrigation, leading to concerns over crop yields. The hydropower sector, too, is grappling with lowered reservoir levels, diminishing its power generation capacity. Additionally, drinking water supply, particularly in rural and high-altitude areas, has become increasingly unreliable as groundwater levels deplete.

Experts are urging immediate action, highlighting the potential long-term consequences for the region’s economy, public health, and climate resilience. There is a growing call for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies, including water conservation, improved irrigation practices, and enhanced water management systems to mitigate the ongoing impact of these dry conditions.

As climate change continues to alter rainfall patterns, Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical juncture. Without substantial investments in sustainable water management and infrastructure, the region could face even more severe drought conditions in the years ahead, threatening its economy and the livelihoods of its residents. (News Vibes of India)

ACB J&K registers disproportionate asset cases against CFO, Xen of Srinagar Smart City Limited

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 10(NVI): The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Jammu and Kashmir has initiated two separate cases of Disproportionate Assets (DA) against senior officials of Srinagar Smart City Limited.

The cases target Sajid Yousuf Bhat, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Zahoor Ahmad Dar, the Executive Engineer, who are accused of amassing assets far exceeding their known sources of income.

The ACB conducted a covert investigation into the allegations, uncovering evidence of lavish lifestyles and illicit wealth. Sajid Yousuf Bhat is suspected of owning a commercial property in Rambagh, Srinagar, valued significantly higher than the sale deed price, along with multiple bank accounts showing suspicious transactions. Meanwhile, Zahoor Ahmad Dar is accused of owning a luxury multi-storied house in Shalteng, Srinagar, and engaging in questionable financial activities, including suspicious bank transactions and the acquisition of properties under false names.

Both suspects face charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, for possessing assets disproportionate to their known lawful income. The ACB has registered two FIRs (No. 01/2025 and No. 02/2025) and obtained search warrants from the court. Ongoing searches at various locations linked to the suspects are expected to shed more light on their illicit dealings as the investigation progresses. (News Vibes of India)

CM Omar launches J&K RTI Online Portal to boost transparency, Citizen empowerment

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 10 (NVI): In a landmark move towards fostering transparency and accountability in governance, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today launched the Jammu & Kashmir Right to Information (RTI) Online Portal at the Civil Secretariat.

This digital initiative, developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) Jammu and Kashmir, represents a paradigm shift in simplifying the RTI process for citizens across the Union Territory.

The launch event was graced by several dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Cabinet Ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmad Rana, and Javed Ahmad Dar, as well as Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, and senior government officials.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Omar Abdullah lauded the efforts of the team behind the portal, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the accessibility of government information. “This initiative will empower citizens by providing them with a faster, more transparent, and cost-efficient mechanism to access information under the RTI Act,” he said.

He further urged government authorities to ensure widespread awareness about the portal to enable maximum citizen engagement.

The RTI Online Portal eliminates the traditional dependence on physical applications by allowing citizens to submit requests, track their status, and receive responses electronically. A key feature is the issuance of a unique registration number to applicants via SMS and email, ensuring easy tracking of applications.

During the event, Secretary General Administration Department (GAD) M. Raju presented the portal’s key features, highlighting its user-friendly interface, streamlined RTI workflow, cost efficiency, and role in promoting government accountability.

The portal covers 61 government departments, connecting 272 nodal officers/public authorities, 720 First Appellate Authorities (FAAs), and 3,419 Central and Public Information Officers (CPIOs/PIOs). This comprehensive integration ensures that citizens have seamless access to government activities and decisions.

The initiative underscores the J&K government’s commitment to modernizing governance through technological innovation, empowering its citizens, and strengthening democratic principles. (News Vibes of India)

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