38 Killed After Massive Cloudburst in J&K
A devastating cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Chashoti village has left a trail of destruction, killing at least 38 people and injuring dozens more. The sudden flash flood caused by the cloudburst on Thursday has left the entire region in a state of shock and grief. The death toll is feared to rise as rescue operations are underway to evacuate those trapped in the affected areas.
According to reports, the cloudburst occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, causing a flash flood that swept through the Chashoti village, located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The floodwaters were said to be extremely powerful, causing widespread damage to homes, buildings, and infrastructure.
The Machail Mata Yatra, an annual pilgrimage that attracts thousands of devotees, has been suspended indefinitely due to the flash floods. Chashoti is the starting point of the yatra, which is considered one of the most sacred and revered pilgrimages in the region.
The Indian authorities have launched a massive rescue operation to evacuate those trapped in the affected areas. Teams of rescue workers, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), are working tirelessly to reach remote areas and provide assistance to those in need.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic,” with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble and debris scattered everywhere. “It was like the end of the world,” said one resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We were woken up by the sound of rushing water and then the floodwaters came. We were lucky to escape with our lives.”
The affected families are struggling to come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. Many are left without homes, food, or shelter, and are in dire need of assistance.
The cloudburst is being attributed to a sudden change in weather patterns, which is not uncommon in the region. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of heavy rainfall and flash flooding in the region, advising people to take necessary precautions.
The government has announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh each to those who have been injured. The Prime Minister’s Office has also announced an immediate relief package of Rs 1 crore to the affected families.
As the rescue operation continues, the authorities are working to ensure that the affected families receive necessary assistance and support. The government has also set up relief camps in the affected areas, where people can take shelter and receive food and medical aid.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the region, with people coming together to offer support and assistance to the affected families. The incident is a grim reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the need for timely and effective response.
The government has also launched an investigation into the incident, with officials working to determine the cause of the cloudburst and the extent of the damage.
As the people of Jammu and Kashmir come together to mourn the loss of lives and property, the nation as a whole is left reeling from the devastating impact of the cloudburst. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and the people of Jammu and Kashmir during this difficult time.
