Tragic Cloudbursts in Jammu and Kashmir: Lives Lost and Communities Devastated

Severe Weather Causes Catastrophic Flooding

In Ramban district, Jammu and Kashmir, heavy rainfall caused by cloudbursts led to devastating flash floods and landslides early on Sunday. This calamity resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and significant damage to numerous homes and roads, while over 100 individuals were rescued from perilous situations.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a vital route, was rendered impassable as landslides and mudslides blocked the road at multiple locations between Nashri and Banihal, officials reported.

Commuters found themselves stranded on the 250-kilometer highway, which serves as the only all-weather connection between Kashmir and the rest of India.

A cloudburst hit the village of Seri Bagna, claiming the lives of three individuals, including brothers Aqib Ahmad and Mohd Saqib. Rescue operations were ongoing in the area as reports came in.

In the past two days, five people have died in rain-related incidents across the Jammu region. A lightning strike in the Arnas area of Reasi district late Saturday resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including a woman, while another woman sustained injuries.

Approximately 40 homes were damaged in Dharam Kund village due to flash floods, with ten houses completely destroyed and the remainder suffering partial damage.

Police personnel bravely rescued over 100 villagers trapped by the floods, despite the relentless downpour.

Several vehicles were swept away by the floodwaters from an overflowing stream, according to officials.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, who visited the affected areas, described the situation as dire and pledged to report back to the chief minister.

A senior government official indicated that the district has experienced extensive damage from heavy rains, cloudbursts, strong winds, landslides, and hailstorms.

The official emphasized that monitoring the situation is crucial, and an assessment will follow to provide necessary assistance to those affected, prioritizing the safety of lives.

Both Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed their condolences for the lives lost and assured that all possible support is being extended to the affected families.

The district administration, along with the State Disaster Response Force and rescue teams, is actively working to provide swift relief, as stated by Sinha.

Choudhary reiterated the government's commitment to stand with the people during this challenging time, promising a thorough report from the deputy commissioner and efforts to compensate for the losses incurred.

A spokesperson from the traffic department confirmed that vehicular movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been halted due to landslides, mudslides, and falling rocks at various points between Nashri and Banihal.

With rain continuing along the highway, commuters have been advised to avoid travel until conditions improve and the road is cleared.

Officials reported that a section of the road near Panthiyal was also washed away, but all stranded individuals have been safely relocated.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh commended the district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Baseer-ul-Haq Chaudhary, for their quick response in saving lives.

He noted that the Ramban region experienced severe hailstorms, multiple landslides, and high winds throughout the night, leading to the blockage of the national highway and the unfortunate loss of three lives and property damage for several families.

Singh assured that all forms of relief, both financial and otherwise, are being provided, and he is in constant communication with the deputy commissioner.

He emphasized that if necessary, additional resources could be allocated from his personal funds, urging the public not to panic as they collectively navigate this natural disaster.

NC leader Farooq Abdullah highlighted the extensive damage reported in Ramban and Banihal, stating that the government is dispatching ministers to the affected areas and will seek financial assistance from the Centre to ensure adequate relief for those impacted by the disaster.