Voices grow for long-term rehab in Warwan ahead of valley’s harsh winter isolation

Warwan, Oct 19: Relief efforts continue to pour into Mulwarwan village in the Warwan Valley, where a devastating fire on October 14 left over 70 families homeless.

While various humanitarian organisations and local trusts have sent truckloads of aid – including clothing, blankets, food kits, and other essentials - there is a growing concern over the lack of coordination on the ground.

Many organisations have delivered their aid to a local seminary in Inshan village, burdening its administrators with the complex task of distribution.

Mufti Shahnawaz, who oversees the seminary, expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support from across Kashmir, Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal, and Jammu but emphasised the need for a more organised approach to ensure relief reaches the victims effectively.

Ababeel, a charity trust based in the Doda district of Chenab Valley, has been leading relief efforts in the area. Hassan Babur, a volunteer with the trust, highlighted that while relief supplies are sufficient for now, the focus must shift toward long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation.

“Our team of around 80 volunteers is working to ensure smooth relief distribution,” said Babur.

“But with winter approaching, we need to prioritise rebuilding homes. It’s crucial to begin preparing for rehabilitation now.”

The only road connecting Warwan to the rest of the region, the Marwa-Warwan-Margan Top road, will soon close due to heavy snowfall, isolating the area for up to six months.

With more than 6 feet of snow expected, the region will be cut off, making it nearly impossible to transport construction materials during the winter months.

Cement, bricks, and tin for building must come from Anantnag, while sand, gravel, and timber can be sourced locally.

However, the nearest brick kiln is 90 km away in Achabal.

Babur said that prefab structures may not withstand the harsh winter conditions.

“It is essential to stockpile construction materials like tin, plywood, and timber now so that reconstruction can begin as soon as the weather permits,” he said.

Babar said that the trust is also working with architects to design a new colony for the victims, ensuring it includes all basic facilities.

“Solar panels and gas stocks are being provided to the villagers, as the area lacks power supply and phone connectivity,” he said.

Beyond homes for the residents, there is also an urgent need for shelters for livestock.

The villagers, who own about 1000 animals – including cows, buffaloes, goats, and sheep - lost both their sheds and fodder in the fire.

“Fodder, grass, and materials for building animal shelters must come from Kashmir Valley,” Babur said.

Several organisations like Syed-u-Sadat Foundation Anantnag have already tied up Ababeel for better coordination.

District Field Officer for Chinar International, Rouf Khanday echoed Babur’s concerns.

“Instead of focusing solely on immediate relief, the government, local trusts, and international organisations must prioritise long-term rehabilitation,” Khanday said. “Providing financial assistance and construction materials is more critical at this stage.” The humanitarian organisation, which has worked in the region for over a decade with a focus on children’s education, also called for a coordinated effort to rebuild the village and support the affected families through the challenging months ahead.