A massive cloudburst in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday triggered catastrophic flash floods, claiming at least 33 lives, injuring over 120, and leaving more than 220 people missing. The disaster struck along the route of the ongoing Machail Mata Yatra, where a heavy rush of pilgrims and relentless rains turned the situation deadly.
Officials reported that the flash floods swept through a parking lot, langar (community kitchen), and a CRPF camp, trapping several people under debris. Rescue operations, led by SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities, are underway but are being hampered by bad weather and damaged roads. Helicopter assistance has been delayed due to unsafe flying conditions.
District Development Council Chairperson Pooja Thakur confirmed that rescue teams are working tirelessly to evacuate those stranded and provide medical care to the injured. Videos from the site show pilgrims being rushed to safety as raging waters tore through the area.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and assured that every possible assistance would be provided. Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, pledging full central support. Omar Abdullah confirmed the grim situation and said all available resources were being mobilised.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, coordinating the rescue, warned that the remote location and severe weather could result in substantial casualties.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Machail Mata Yatra, a revered pilgrimage in the region. As rescue teams race against time, the focus remains on finding survivors and providing relief to the hundreds affected.
This disaster serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather events, especially in vulnerable mountainous regions during the monsoon season.