HomeNationCloudburst in J&K’s Kathua Kills Four, Wreaks Havoc on Rail and Road...

Cloudburst in J&K’s Kathua Kills Four, Wreaks Havoc on Rail and Road Links

Kathua: At least four people were killed and several others injured after a sudden cloudburst struck Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir during the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, unleashing flash floods and landslides that swept through multiple areas.

The cloudburst, accompanied by heavy overnight rainfall, led to roads being submerged, infrastructure damaged, and a village completely cut off, severely affecting relief and rescue operations. Officials confirmed that several parts of Jodh Khad and Juthana bore the brunt of the disaster.

In a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, CM Omar Abdullah expressed sorrow over the tragedy. “Chief Minister has expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives and damage caused by landslides in several parts of District Kathua, including Jodh Khad and Juthana, which claimed 4 lives and left many injured. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, and assured all necessary assistance,” the release read. Abdullah has also directed the district administration to launch immediate relief, rescue, and evacuation measures.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh also confirmed the scale of destruction, including damage to critical infrastructure. In a post on X, he said: “Spoke to SSP Kathua Sh Shobhit Saxena after receiving information about a cloud burst in the Janglote area. 4 Casualties reported. In addition, damage has occurred to Railway track, National Highway while Police Station Kathua has been affected.”

Authorities said civil administration, military, and paramilitary teams have been pressed into action and the situation is being closely monitored. Meanwhile, the District Administration has issued a strict weather advisory urging residents to stay away from rivers, streams, nullahs, and hilly areas vulnerable to landslides, warning that water levels could rise suddenly. People have been advised to avoid non-essential travel until conditions stabilise.

Emergency helplines have been activated for affected residents: District Emergency Operation Centre (01922-238796), Police Control Room (9858034100), and the Emergency Response Support System (112).

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