After Doda & Ramban, land subsidence in J&K's Poonch

JAMMU: Land subsidence claimed several structures, including residential properties, two govt schools, a graveyard, and a mosque in Kalaban village in Mendhar sector in J&K’s Poonch district, triggering panic among residents and displacing about 70 families, officials said Tuesday.

Many villagers relocated to safer areas and nearby villages as land continued to sink in Kalaban until late Tuesday. Previously, Doda and Ramban districts in Jammu region had experienced similar subsidence — in 2023 and 2024, respectively — prompting authorities to form expert committees to investigate the causes and recommend remedial measures.

“About 27 structures, mostly residential houses, were destroyed due to sinking land in Kalaban, situated on the slope of a hill. Others developed wide cracks, making them hazardous for habitation. Three schools and the main road leading to the village were also damaged,” said Mendhar SDM Imran Rashid Kataria, adding that nobody was injured.

“As per initial reports, the subsidence was caused by incessant rains that lashed Jammu region in the past month. We are monitoring the situation. Efforts are on to provide alternative accommodation to the displaced families,” Kataria said.

“So far, two shelters have been identified as makeshift homes for displaced families and equipped with basic amenities, including a month’s ration and other essential items,” the SDM said. Officials were camping in the area to help locals move to safety.

Minister Javed Ahmad Rana visited Kalaban and assured the residents of adequate assistance. “Directed immediate relief—shelter, food, healthcare & SDRF compensation. District administration will ensure relocation of affected families and their rehabilitation. Forest dept will take up soil conservation & plantation drives. Flood control dept will prepare a DPR for long-term mitigation. The Omar Abdullah-led govt is committed to protecting vulnerable communities & building a resilient, people-first disaster response system,” Rana posted on X.

On April 26, 2024, a massive chunk of land sank in Ramban’s Parnote village, destroying 58 houses in just three days, and forcing around 500 residents to move out. On Feb 4, 2023, 20 families had to be evacuated from Nayi Basti area in Doda’s Thathri municipality after land subsidence caused dozens of houses to develop cracks, rendering them uninhabitable. Both episodes were linked to the 2023 Uttarakhand Joshimath subsidence disaster.