Jammu, Dec. 10 -- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday visited Kathua and Samba and laid the foundation stone for the construction of 449 new homes for families affected due to recent natural calamities in the districts.

A total of 344 houses that were completely devastated in Kathua will be constructed for Rs. 34 crore. In Samba, 105 houses damaged during the recent flash floods will be rebuilt for Rs. 10.50 crore, an official press release informed.

It said the construction costs for these 3-bedroom houses will be financed by an NGO, High-range Rural Development Society (HRDS India), which will also ensure modern amenities and facilities for homeowners.

Addressing the gathering, the LG commended HRDS India for its noble endeavo...