Heavy Rains Devastate Jammu and Kashmir, 34 Dead As Floods And Landslides Wreak Havoc

Torrential rains wreaked havoc across Jammu and Kashmir, killing at least 34 people, destroying infrastructure, and snapping road, rail, air and internet links with the rest of the country, reported The New Indian Express.

Jammu recorded its highest-ever August rainfall in 24 hours at 380 mm, the MeT department said.

The incessant downpour triggered floods, landslides, and cloudbursts.

Around 30 people died in a massive landslide near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkwari, en route to the Vaishno Devi shrine, TNIE reported citing SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh.

NDRF, SDRF, police and civil agencies launched rescue operations, but poor connectivity hampered relief efforts.

Two people died when their house collapsed in Doda, while flash floods swept away two others.

Authorities evacuated more than 5,000 residents from low-lying areas.

“We are ensuring that there is adequate supply of relief materials and possible assistance is being given to those affected,” Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said.

Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

The Tawi, Chenab and Jhelum rivers crossed danger levels, prompting flood declarations in parts of Kashmir.

Water inundated Jammu’s low-lying colonies, damaging bridges, homes and government property.

The Jammu-Srinagar highway, Jammu-Pathankote road, rail services, and flights remain suspended.

Authorities closed all schools, colleges and universities, postponing exams. Independent forecaster Faizan Arif said water levels may rise briefly but could start receding by tonight.

Residents have been warned to stay away from water bodies and vulnerable zones.

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