Who is Responsible for Loss of Life and Property in Disasters – Government or the Public?

Jan Sangharsh Morcha Raises Serious Questions
Concerns Expressed Over Settlements Along Riverbanks

In the wake of the devastating disaster in Uttarkashi, Raghunath Singh Negi, President of Jan Sangharsh Morcha and former Vice Chairman of GMVN, raised serious concerns over the government’s disaster management policy during a press conference.

Negi stated that the recurring natural disasters are clear indications that the government has failed to take essential precautions in sensitive areas. He emphasized the urgent need for the construction of strong embankments to protect government, commercial, and residential buildings established along rivers, streams, and canals, in order to minimize potential loss of life and property in the future.

Negi questioned:
“Who permitted people to settle along riverbanks? Is the responsibility solely the public’s?”

He added that the government should not only strictly prohibit future construction near water bodies but also build protective embankments for existing government institutions such as schools, jails, police stations, mental hospitals, army colonies, etc., that are located near water sources.

The Morcha also questioned the security measures in place for government offices and demanded that the government ensure robust arrangements for their protection.

Expressing deep sorrow over the Uttarkashi disaster, Raghunath Singh Negi urged the government to learn from such tragedies and formulate solid policies to prevent recurrence in the future.

Haji Asad and Praveen Sharma “Pinni” were also present at the press conference.