Early Times Report
Srinagar, Sept 25 The Jammu and Kashmir government has once again clarified that all items of relief, dispatched to the flood-hit state from various parts of the country and outside for affected families, have been exempted from entry and toll taxes. A government spokesperson on Thursday requested NGOs and others, who are engaged in relief operations, to inform their representatives accordingly and carry on the process of dispatching and distributing relief to the affected families hassle free. By virtue of the SROs, a highly simplified framework has been put in place under which NGOs, institutions and individuals can themselves certify that goods, which are meant for the relief, can avail exemption of taxes, instead of approaching various competent authorities in government for such certificates. It is pertinent to mention here that Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a massive flood recently leading to destruction of residential houses, government offices, educational sector including private sector in Kashmir's summer capital Srinagar and South Kashmir. According to reports, flood fury has claimed 400 lives so far and injured about 1000. Besides, hundreds are still missing in valley. During the flood fury a major break down was faced in the telecommunication sector which includes BSNL, Airtel, Aircel, and Vodafone. These companies incurred huge losses. Meanwhile authorities of Baharat Sanchar Nigam Limited said that in next two weeks network will be made functional including broadband and other internet service. |
