How Did Flash Floods in J&K’s Kathua Claim Four Lives?
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Synopsis
In a tragic incident, flash floods triggered by a cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district led to the death of four people and injuries to many others. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities respond to the disaster. Stay informed about the latest developments and precautions being taken.
Key Takeaways
- Four fatalities reported due to cloudburst in Kathua.
- Ongoing rescue operations by local authorities and military.
- Residents advised to stay away from water bodies.
- Weather alerts indicate heavy rainfall across the region.
- Previous cloudburst in Kishtwar resulted in over 65 casualties.
Jammu, Aug 17 (NationPress) Tragically, four individuals lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries following a devastating cloudburst that struck the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir during the night between Saturday and Sunday, according to reports from local authorities. A rescue operation is currently in progress in the impacted region.
The Minister of State (PMO), Dr. Jitendra Singh, communicated via X, stating, "I have spoken with SSP Kathua Sh Shobhit Saxena after receiving reports about a cloudburst in the Janglote area. Four casualties have been documented. Additionally, damage has been inflicted on the railway track, national highway, and the Kathua police station."
He also noted that both the civilian administration and military, along with paramilitary forces, have mobilized to address the situation, which is under constant surveillance.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have passed away,” the Minister expressed in his update.
The district administration issued a weather warning, indicating that heavy to very heavy rainfall has been reported across the area.
Residents have been advised to keep a safe distance from water bodies.
The Information and Public Relations office of the Union Territory stated on X, “Weather Advisory | Kathua. Heavy to very heavy rainfall has been reported across the district. Avoid rivers, streams, nallahs, and areas prone to landslides. Stay vigilant regarding the risk of flash floods and landslides.”
This incident marks the second cloudburst to affect Jammu and Kashmir in the past four days.
On August 14, a significant cloudburst impacted Chashoti village in the Padder sub-division of Kishtwar district, resulting in the recovery of 65 bodies and the rescue of over 100 individuals.
Families have reported 75 individuals as missing, but local witnesses believe that hundreds may have been swept away by flash floods and are trapped beneath massive boulders, logs, and debris.
Among the deceased were two members of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and a Special Police Officer (SPO) from the local police department, officials confirmed.
The disaster struck Chashoti, the final motorable village on the path to the Machail Mata temple, at approximately 12:25 PM on August 14. It obliterated a temporary market, a community kitchen for the Machail Mata Yatris, and a security outpost.
At least 16 residential and government buildings, three temples, four water mills, a 30-meter-long bridge, and over a dozen vehicles were also damaged in the flash floods.
The annual Machail Mata Yatra, which commenced on July 25 and was set to conclude on September 5, has been suspended for the third consecutive day as of Saturday.
The 8.5-kilometer trek to the 9,500 ft tall shrine begins from Chashoti, located about 90 kilometers from Kishtwar town. Rescue efforts have been intensified, with nearly a dozen earthmovers deployed by civil authorities and specialized equipment including dog squads utilized by the NDRF.
Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked on X following his visit to the disaster site, “After a long, arduous uphill journey, I finally reached the site of the cloudburst tragedy in Kishtwar… very late, around midnight.”
In addition to the SDRF, NDRF, home guards, local volunteers, and J&K Police, over 300 Army personnel have been dispatched to support the rescue efforts.
Point of View
It is imperative that we maintain a commitment to delivering accurate and timely information regarding natural disasters. The recent cloudburst incidents in Jammu and Kashmir highlight the urgent need for improved disaster management and community preparedness. Our thoughts are with the affected families, and we will continue to report on the ongoing rescue efforts.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flash floods in Kathua?
The flash floods in Kathua were caused by a cloudburst that occurred during the night, leading to heavy rainfall and significant damage in the area.
How many people were affected by the cloudburst?
At least four people lost their lives, and many others were injured. Rescue operations are ongoing to reach those affected.
What measures are being taken for rescue operations?
Rescue operations involve local authorities, military personnel, and specialized equipment to aid in search and rescue efforts.
Are there any safety advisories in place?
Yes, the district administration has issued a weather advisory urging the public to avoid water bodies and remain cautious of flash floods and landslides.
Has this happened before in Jammu and Kashmir?
Yes, this is the second cloudburst incident in Jammu and Kashmir within four days, highlighting the region's vulnerability to such natural disasters.
