Cloudburst in Kishtwar Claims 60 Lives as Rescue Operations Intensify and Many Remain Missing

New Delhi (India) August 15: According to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the death toll from the huge cloudburst in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, increased to 60 on Friday. It is despite the fact that rescue efforts were still ongoing for the second day.

Pilgrims worst affected

Flash floods on the Machail Mata Yatra path to the Himalayan temple of Mata Chandi have left hundreds of people missing. It is believed that many people are trapped under debris.

As of right now, 167 people have been recovered in injured condition. 38 of them are reportedly in serious condition. The downpour destroys a temporary market, yatra langar site and security outpost. The situation is thought to have stranded many more people.

After being notified by local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma and the leader of the opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly, Union minister Jitendra Singh said that he spoke with Pankaj Kumar Sharma. He is the deputy commissioner of Kishtwar.

Jitendra Singh posts, “Massive cloud burst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty. Administration has immediately swung into action, rescue team has left for the site. Damage evaluation and necessary rescue and medical management arrangements are being made. My office is receiving regular updates, all possible assistance will be provided” on social media platform X.

According to BS Tuti, inspector general of police in Jammu, the majority of the victims were pilgrims making their way to the Hindu temple of Machail Mata. He predicts that the number of casualties will increase.

Independence Day events cancelled

Kishtwar's Independence Day celebrations have been canceled by the district administration due to the tragedy. The Deputy Commissioner directs that there be no cultural activities or tea parties held at homes. The ceremony will just consist of the raising of the flag and the playing of the national anthem.

According to officials, 21 of the 46 victims that have been recovered so far have been identified by their relatives, and the remaining bodies are still being identified.

Rescue teams rushed in

On Friday, a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team arrived in the area affected by the cloudburst. Two additional teams are on its route. According to them, the Army also adds a column to strengthen search and rescue efforts. Officers from the Rashtriya Rifles have joined the fight.

Due to the current weather, the J&K Police puts the entire area on high alert, with specialized squads on standby to handle any emergencies. To aid residents and pilgrims, control centers and help desks have been set up around the district in collaboration with the district government.

Aadrika Tayal