Kishtwar, J&K: A massive cloudburst struck the Chashoti area in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, triggering flash floods along the Machail Mata Yatra route. Authorities have launched extensive rescue and relief operations in response.
Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Pankaj Sharma, confirmed that rescue teams have been deployed to the affected region and operations are ongoing.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh shared updates on the situation via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating that he had spoken with DC Pankaj Sharma after receiving an urgent alert from the Leader of Opposition in J&K and local MLA, Sunil Kumar Sharma.
“Massive cloudburst in Chashoti area, which could result in substantial casualties. The administration has swung into action immediately. Rescue teams have left for the site and damage assessment is underway. Arrangements for medical aid are being made,” Singh posted.
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, expressed grief over the incident. “Anguished by the cloudburst in Chashoti, Kishtwar. My condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the injured. I have directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF, and SDRF teams to intensify rescue and relief efforts and ensure all possible help is provided to the affected,” he said.
Sunil Kumar Sharma, MLA for Padder-Nagseni, raised concerns about potential heavy damage in the area, especially due to the ongoing Machail Mata Yatra, which has led to congestion in the region.
Sharma said, “We don’t have confirmed data or numbers yet, but there is a possibility of major damage. The area is crowded due to the yatra. I will be speaking to the LG and requesting the deployment of an NDRF team for rescue operations.”
Further updates are awaited as rescue teams continue to reach and assess the impacted zones.
