Flash Floods Trigger Widespread Damage in Jammu and Kashmir Doda District

Heavy rainfall triggered flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, causing widespread destruction in several areas and severely affecting normal life. Authorities have launched relief and restoration efforts as residents deal with damaged homes, blocked roads and disrupted transport.

The worst affected areas include Thathri, Gandoh and Bhalessa, where overflowing streams and floodwaters inundated roads and residential neighbourhoods. Landslides accompanied the heavy rain, sending rocks and debris downhill and damaging several houses and vehicles.

One of the major transport routes in the region, the Doda Kishtwar National Highway near Thathri, was temporarily closed after floodwaters and debris made the road unsafe for traffic. The closure caused significant disruption to vehicle movement and connectivity in the district.

Officials said the flash floods were caused by intense rainfall in the upper reaches, which led to a sudden rise in water levels in local streams. The fast moving water carried mud, rocks and other debris, increasing the extent of damage across affected villages.

District authorities are assessing the losses while emergency teams continue clearing debris from roads to restore traffic as quickly as possible. Restoration work is underway at multiple locations to improve access and assist affected communities.

Officials have also urged residents to remain alert as heavy rain is expected to continue in parts of the region. People living in vulnerable areas have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities until weather conditions improve.