Govt plans 5-marla plots for families displaced by natural disasters

Srinagar, Oct 28: The Jammu and Kashmir government is preparing a new land allocation scheme aimed at assisting families left homeless by natural calamities across the Union Territory.

The Revenue Department, in a written statement tabled in the Legislative Assembly during the ongoing Autumn Session, said it is working on a detailed plan to provide plots of state land to those who have lost their homes and property in disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, and cloudbursts.

The clarification came in response to a question raised by MLA Hilal Akbar Lone from Sumbal constituency, who sought details on rehabilitation measures for landless families affected by repeated natural calamities.

As per the department’s submission, each eligible family will be granted a 5-marla plot on a lease basis, with the land strictly meant for the construction of residential houses. Officials said the scheme is being designed to ensure that disaster-hit households receive stable shelter rather than temporary relief assistance.

“The government is working toward a sustainable rehabilitation model that offers long-term security to families impacted by natural disasters,” the written reply stated.
It further noted that the draft proposal is currently being examined by various departments to finalize the modalities, including eligibility criteria, identification of suitable land, and coordination with the Disaster Management Authority.

Once cleared, the plan is expected to benefit a significant number of displaced families, particularly in regions frequently affected by floods and landslides. (KNS).