Moving ambulances to forward areas: CM Abdullah

Chief Minister (CM) Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said the government was moving more ambulances to forward areas affected by shelling and would take appropriate steps as the situation develops.

Omar said he had held a video conference with all district collectors along the border and the Line of Control (LoC) to assess the ground situation. “We are dealing with the situation as it develops,” he said. The CM added that he had spoken directly to the Deputy Commissioner of Poonch to obtain a detailed assessment.

“We are moving more ambulances to the forward areas. At the moment, we can’t do much more because shelling is ongoing. But we are keeping totally abreast of the situation. And, as it develops, our response will also be tailored accordingly,” Omar stated.

He also urged residents not to panic despite the escalating tension. “The only thing I would like to tell people is that there is no cause for panic. Yes, there is some amount of tension and difficult situations. But not across the entire LoC. It is in the pockets. The border is largely peaceful,” he emphasised.

He clarified that the shelling was localised. “There are pockets of the LoC both on the Kashmir side and Jammu side where we are seeing some response. But we are monitoring the situation and to the best extent possible, we will deal appropriately,” he said.

Meanwhile, a government spokesperson said the CM chaired an emergency meeting via video conferencing with Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of all border districts to assess the impact of intensified cross-border shelling.

Officials stated that the preparedness to deal with any emergency was thoroughly reviewed, especially in view of the current developments and heightened tension along the LoC and areas close to the International Border (IB).

During the meeting, the CM directed the immediate release of Contingency Funds, Rs 5 crore for each border district and Rs 2 crore for other districts, to equip officials with the necessary resources to manage emerging situations.

Regarding medical preparedness, the CM instructed the Health Department to maintain sufficient stock of essential medical supplies, ensure availability of doctors and paramedics and keep blood supplies ready, particularly in hospitals located in vulnerable areas.

J & K