Srinagar, Aug. 22 -- Chief minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday chaired a meeting to review the ongoing relief and rehabilitation measures for people affected by the recent cloudbursts and flashfloods in Kishtwar and Kathua districts. More than 33 people are still missing while operation to retrieve bodies from Chishoti is still under progress. The CM, while addressing officers, stressed the need for speedy relief assistance, restoration of essential services, and long-term strategies to safeguard vulnerable areas from recurring natural calamities. "Whether it was a cloudburst or a glacial lake outburst, the fact remains that this tragedy struck at the busiest time of the year in the Chishoti village. Had it occurred at any other time, the impact might have been less severe. These are lessons we must take forward. The meteorological department had issued warnings, including advisories against unnecessary travel, which underscores the importance of adopting clear SOPs and guidelines for highly vulnerable regions." On the ongoing rescue operations, the CM said that unfortunately, with 33 people still missing, it is safe to presume we may not find any of them alive. "Our priority now is to retrieve dead bodies to hand them over to their families. Equally important is to rehabilitate those whose homes and livelihoods have been devastated." He said all possible government support in reconstruction of damaged homes, restoration of agricultural land, and provision of essential services.htc...