Jammu, Sept. 24 -- Following incidents of land sinking in the Jammu region post- August downpour, experts have cautioned that the eco-fragile Himalayan terrain cannot withstand the unchecked hill cutting and tree felling and have advised to opt for the scientific studies to minimise the damage.

"Don't simply cut the mountains and trees. Instead, make arterial roads elevated in and along the rivers and tunnels after scientific studies to minimize damage," said prof GM Bhat, former head of the geology department at University of Jammu.

While heavy to very heavy rains in August this year left a trail of destruction in Jammu, subsequent incidents of land sinking in Reasi, Poonch, Ramban and Doda districts forced hundreds to flee their homes...