A massive cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district has claimed the lives of 45 people and left 120 injured, including pilgrims attending the Machail Mata Yatra. The disaster struck the Chashoti area in Paddar sub-division on Thursday, washing away homes, temples, government buildings, and a bridge. Authorities have confirmed that several people are still missing, and rescue operations are ongoing.
The rescue efforts have been led by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and the Army, with over 300 soldiers deployed. Additional teams from NDRF and 118 RCC of BRO were rushed to the site to clear roads and establish temporary bridges. Officials reported that 35 of the injured are in serious condition, and critical care facilities at Sub-District Hospital Paddar, District Hospital Kishtwar, and Government Medical College Jammu have been reinforced with doctors, paramedics, and specialized equipment.
The Machail Mata Yatra, which began on July 25 and was scheduled to end on September 5, has been suspended due to the disaster. A large crowd had gathered at Chashoti when the cloudburst triggered flash floods, causing extensive damage to a community kitchen (langar) and temporary structures.
Union MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed that rescue teams had been immediately dispatched, while Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha assured affected families of government support. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced the cancellation of cultural events and tea parties during Independence Day celebrations in light of the tragedy.
Authorities continue to search for missing persons under the debris. The deceased include pilgrims from across Jammu and Udhampur, while seriously injured patients are being referred to hospitals in Jammu for advanced treatment. Medical teams from PGIMER Chandigarh have also been deployed to assist with critical care.
The devastating J&K cloudburst has highlighted the urgent need for disaster preparedness in the region. Authorities remain on high alert, with rescue, relief, and medical operations fully operational as efforts continue to safeguard lives and provide relief to affected communities.
