J&K: Cloudburst Triggers Flash Flood in Anantnag’s Chittergul; Residents Seek Compensation for Orchard Losses

July 12, 2026

Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir: A cloudburst in the Nala Chotihall area of Chittergul in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district triggered flash floods on Sunday, causing extensive damage to agricultural fields, orchards and residential areas.

Following the incident, the district administration rushed emergency teams to the affected locations to assess the situation and begin relief and preventive measures.

Paddy Fields, Apple Orchards and Houses Damaged

Residents said the sudden flash flood caused widespread destruction in the area, with water entering several houses and damaging paddy fields and apple orchards.

Local resident Manzoor Ahmad Khan said the natural disaster caused major losses to farmers who depend on agriculture and horticulture for their livelihood.

“The sudden heavy rainfall triggered a massive flood. Farmers across the area have suffered severe damage to paddy fields and orchards. We request the government to provide compensation for the losses caused to crops and apple trees,” Khan said.

Families Forced to Leave Homes Due to Floodwaters

Residents said the situation became frightening as water levels increased rapidly, forcing several families to evacuate their homes.

Khan said floodwaters also entered a local mosque, leaving residents worried about their safety.

“At that time, our only concern was saving ourselves and our children. Water entered our homes and surrounded the mosque from all sides. There is destruction everywhere,” he said.

Another resident, Rayees Ahmad, said the cloudburst occurred around 7 pm, after which water flowing down from the mountains changed the course of a local stream and caused damage to nearby fields and houses.

He said many families had to move outside their homes as they feared for their lives. He also appealed to the administration to provide compensation after a proper assessment of the losses.

Road Connectivity Affected, Administration Reviews Damage

Rayees Ahmad said floodwaters from the Chatpal area also damaged the main road, affecting movement in the region.

He urged the district administration to inspect the damage in Chittergul, Chaklipora and Brimmer areas, especially the losses suffered by farmers and orchard owners.

Another resident, Ishfaq Ahmad Khan, said people remained terrified after the incident and many families stayed outside their homes during the night due to fear.

He requested government departments to conduct physical verification of damage to orchards, livestock, agricultural fields and roads.

The Anantnag district administration has deployed emergency teams to the affected areas and is assessing the extent of damage while taking necessary steps to provide assistance.

preventive measures.