38 Killed After Massive Cloudburst in J&K
Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a devastating tragedy as a massive cloudburst triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti village, claiming the lives of at least 38 people and injuring dozens more. The tragic incident occurred on Thursday, leaving a trail of destruction and despair in its wake.
According to official reports, the cloudburst occurred at around 3:30 pm on Thursday, causing a flash flood that swept through the Chashoti village in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The floodwaters, caused by the sudden and intense release of rainwater, brought with it debris and rocks, causing widespread destruction and chaos.
The death toll from the disaster is feared to rise as many people are still missing and rescue operations are underway to retrieve those trapped under the rubble. The authorities have confirmed that 38 people have lost their lives in the tragedy, while dozens more have been injured, many critically.
The Machail Mata Yatra, an annual pilgrimage that starts from the Chashoti village, has been suspended indefinitely following the flash floods. The yatra, which attracts thousands of devotees every year, is considered one of the most sacred and revered pilgrimages in the region.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic,” with houses and buildings reduced to rubble, and debris strewn across the streets. The flash flood also damaged several bridges and roads, making it difficult for rescue teams to reach the affected areas.
Rescue efforts are being led by the Jammu and Kashmir government, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army assisting in the relief operations. The teams are working tirelessly to retrieve the bodies of the deceased and provide aid to those affected by the disaster.
The residents of Chashoti village, who are mostly farmers and laborers, are struggling to come to terms with the magnitude of the tragedy. Many have lost their homes, livestock, and livelihoods in the disaster, leaving them with little to fall back on.
The cloudburst has also affected the nearby towns and villages, with many areas experiencing power outages and disruptions to communication services. The state government has set up relief camps in the affected areas, where food, shelter, and medical aid are being provided to those in need.
The authorities have also launched an investigation into the cause of the cloudburst, with officials suspecting that the sudden release of rainwater may have been triggered by a combination of factors, including heavy rainfall and landslides.
As the rescue efforts continue, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are coming together to support those affected by the disaster. The state government has also announced a compensation package for the families of the deceased and the affected, to help them rebuild their lives.
In the face of this tragedy, it is essential that we come together to support those affected and work towards rebuilding their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and the people of Chashoti village, who are struggling to cope with the aftermath of this devastating disaster.
