Jammu: At least 20 people have died and several others are missing after devastating flash floods triggered by multiple cloudbursts wreaked havoc in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Rajouri districts. Rescue operations are underway as teams search through debris and flooded areas to trace missing people.
Cloudbursts trigger massive destruction in Poonch, Rajouri
Unprecedented flash floods caused by heavy rainfall and cloudbursts during the early hours of Sunday led to widespread destruction across the twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri.
In Poonch’s Surankote area, several people were washed away or buried under debris after flash floods hit villages in the region. Officials said multiple bodies have been recovered, while several others remain missing and are feared dead.
The floods damaged dozens of houses, shops and other structures, while many vehicles were washed away in the strong currents. Several electricity poles and transformers were also damaged, disrupting power supply in various areas.
Families missing, rescue operations continue
Officials said a residential house was washed away in Marrah village of Surankote, where eight members of a family went missing. Three bodies have been recovered, while the search for the remaining missing persons continues.
Another house in Sangla village was also washed away, with rescue teams searching for missing members of the family.
A woman, Nazia Kouser, died after a house collapsed in the Haveli area of Poonch, while her husband sustained serious injuries and was shifted for advanced treatment.
Army personnel, police teams, SDRF, civil administration and local residents are jointly carrying out rescue and relief operations in the affected areas.
Rajouri faces severe damage after flash floods
In Rajouri, flash floods caused by a cloudburst led to widespread destruction along the Thannamandi River.
A woman lost her life, while a Jal Shakti Department daily-wage worker was reported missing after floodwaters swept through several areas.
The floods damaged roads, residential houses, shops, public infrastructure, agricultural land and livestock. Around 20 vehicles were washed away, while nearly 40 other vehicles suffered damage at the Bela Colony Bus Stand area.
The sudden rise in water levels of the Sukhto River and other seasonal streams affected low-lying areas, forcing several families to move to safer locations.
Authorities intensify relief work
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held a meeting with senior officials and directed departments to provide immediate assistance to affected families.
Rescue teams have evacuated dozens of stranded residents from flood-hit areas. Authorities have advised people living near rivers and water bodies to remain alert as more heavy rainfall and flash floods are possible in the coming days.
The administration is also assessing the extent of damage caused to homes, infrastructure, vehicles and agricultural property.