Kishtwar Cloudburst: 51 people death, over 100 injured

Kishtwar Cloudburst: A massive cloudburst in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir has resulted in a devastating flash flood and landslide, causing significant loss of life and property.

As of the latest reports, the death toll from the disaster has climbed to 51, with over 100 people reported injured. Rescue teams have managed to pull out at least 167 people from the debris and mud. However, there are fears that the final number of casualties could be higher, as many people are still missing.

The disaster struck the remote mountainous village of Chisoti, which is a key stop for pilgrims on the annual Shri Machail Mata Yatra. A community kitchen, or “langar,” for the pilgrims was among the structures that bore the brunt of the flash flood and was completely washed away. Two CISF personnel are also among the confirmed fatalities.

Rescue operations are currently underway, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Indian Army, police, and local volunteers working to find survivors and recover bodies.

However, rescue efforts have been hampered by heavy rainfall and additional landslides in the area. The annual Machail Mata Yatra has been suspended following the incident. The government has set up dedicated control rooms and help desks to provide assistance and information to affected residents and pilgrims.

Both the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister have expressed their condolences and assured full support for the rescue and relief operations.

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