J&K: At least 12 Dead After Massive Cloudburst Triggers Flash Flood in Kishtwar’s Chositi; Rescue Efforts Underway – Key Updates
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A devastating cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district has claimed multiple lives and left several others injured. The incident occurred on Thursday evening in Chositi, a remote village located on the route to the Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden downpour triggered a massive flash flood, sweeping away structures and causing widespread damage.
Initial reports indicated that at least 12 people had lost their lives, but the toll has since risen to 15, with more than 40 others injured. Those hurt in the disaster were rushed to the government hospital in Athuli for treatment.
Authorities have launched a large-scale rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and district administration teams. Nearly 180 NDRF personnel, equipped with advanced rescue tools, have been deployed from the Udhampur base. The Indian Army has also joined the mission to assist in evacuations and relief work.
Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need."
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences. The CMO said, "Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic cloudburst in Kishtwar, extending condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister’s office is in touch with the district administration and all the measures for relief and rescue are being taken."
Several devotees travelling for the Machail Mata Yatra were rescued from the flood-affected area. However, a langar shed set up near the holy shrine was completely washed away in the deluge, adding to the scale of the damage.
Initial reports indicated that at least 12 people had lost their lives, but the toll has since risen to 15, with more than 40 others injured. Those hurt in the disaster were rushed to the government hospital in Athuli for treatment.
Authorities have launched a large-scale rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and district administration teams. Nearly 180 NDRF personnel, equipped with advanced rescue tools, have been deployed from the Udhampur base. The Indian Army has also joined the mission to assist in evacuations and relief work.
Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need."
Union Minister Jitendra Singh also confirmed quick action by the administration, stating, "A massive Cloud burst in Chositi village, which could result in substantial casualties. Administration has immediately swung into action, the rescue team has left for the site."
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences. The CMO said, "Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic cloudburst in Kishtwar, extending condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister’s office is in touch with the district administration and all the measures for relief and rescue are being taken."
Several devotees travelling for the Machail Mata Yatra were rescued from the flood-affected area. However, a langar shed set up near the holy shrine was completely washed away in the deluge, adding to the scale of the damage.
Casualties and Rescue Operations
Initial reports indicated that at least 12 people had lost their lives, but the toll has since risen to 15, with more than 40 others injured. Those hurt in the disaster were rushed to the government hospital in Athuli for treatment.
Authorities have launched a large-scale rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and district administration teams. Nearly 180 NDRF personnel, equipped with advanced rescue tools, have been deployed from the Udhampur base. The Indian Army has also joined the mission to assist in evacuations and relief work.
Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need."
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences. The CMO said, "Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic cloudburst in Kishtwar, extending condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister’s office is in touch with the district administration and all the measures for relief and rescue are being taken."
Impact on Pilgrims and Infrastructure
Several devotees travelling for the Machail Mata Yatra were rescued from the flood-affected area. However, a langar shed set up near the holy shrine was completely washed away in the deluge, adding to the scale of the damage.
Weather Outlook
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming hours. The downpour is expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, raising concerns about further disruptions in the region.Initial reports indicated that at least 12 people had lost their lives, but the toll has since risen to 15, with more than 40 others injured. Those hurt in the disaster were rushed to the government hospital in Athuli for treatment.
Authorities have launched a large-scale rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and district administration teams. Nearly 180 NDRF personnel, equipped with advanced rescue tools, have been deployed from the Udhampur base. The Indian Army has also joined the mission to assist in evacuations and relief work.
Government Response
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need."
Union Minister Jitendra Singh also confirmed quick action by the administration, stating, "A massive Cloud burst in Chositi village, which could result in substantial casualties. Administration has immediately swung into action, the rescue team has left for the site."
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his condolences. The CMO said, "Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic cloudburst in Kishtwar, extending condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister’s office is in touch with the district administration and all the measures for relief and rescue are being taken."
Impact on Pilgrims and Infrastructure
Several devotees travelling for the Machail Mata Yatra were rescued from the flood-affected area. However, a langar shed set up near the holy shrine was completely washed away in the deluge, adding to the scale of the damage.
Weather Outlook
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming hours. The downpour is expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, raising concerns about further disruptions in the region.Next Story