Budgam / Baramulla, Jan 22, KNT: A sudden spell of strong winds caused damage to residential structures in several areas of Central and North Kashmir on Thursday late evening, officials and locals said.
The affected areas include Gulab Daji, Bernar, Malwah, Obera and Kharpora, where high speed gusts led to the blowing away of roofs of a number of houses. In some locations, boundary walls and parts of residential structures collapsed due to the intensity of the winds.
Locals said the sudden weather disturbance created panic among people, as the strong winds struck without prior warning. Several families were forced to rush out of their homes fearing further damage as debris was scattered across residential areas.
Preliminary information suggests that while no injuries were reported, property damage was substantial in some localities. Locals said household belongings were damaged after roofs were ripped off and walls gave way under pressure from the winds.
Inhabitants of the affected areas have urged the authorities to carry out an immediate assessment of the damage and provide necessary assistance to families whose homes were damaged. They said timely relief is essential to help affected households cope with the losses. [KNT]
