38 Killed After Massive Cloudburst in J&K
A devastating cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Chashoti village on Thursday has resulted in the loss of at least 38 precious lives, with dozens more injured. The sudden and unexpected flash flood, caused by the cloudburst, has left a trail of destruction and chaos in its wake. As the authorities struggle to come to terms with the extent of the damage, fears are growing that the death toll may yet rise.
The cloudburst occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning, catching residents of Chashoti village off guard. The sudden and intense rainfall caused the nearby river to swell, leading to a flash flood that swept through the village, destroying homes and infrastructure in its path. The village, which is situated in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, is a popular starting point for the annual Machail Mata Yatra, a revered pilgrimage that attracts thousands of devotees each year.
According to reports, the Machail Mata Yatra, which is one of the most important pilgrimages in the region, has been suspended indefinitely in the wake of the flash flood. The yatra, which is a week-long journey to the Machail Mata temple, was due to begin on Friday. However, with the village still reeling from the aftermath of the cloudburst, it has been decided to postpone the event until further notice.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic”, with debris and rubble scattered everywhere. The sound of screams and wailing could be heard as rescue teams struggled to reach trapped villagers. The rescue efforts were hampered by the treacherous terrain and lack of access to the affected areas.
The authorities have confirmed that 38 people have lost their lives in the flash flood, with dozens more injured. Many are still missing, and fears are growing that the death toll may yet rise as rescue efforts continue. The injured have been taken to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving medical attention.
The cloudburst has also left many without shelter, as homes and buildings have been destroyed or damaged. The villagers are struggling to come to terms with the loss of their livelihoods and homes, and the authorities are working to provide relief and assistance to those affected.
The Indian Army, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have all been deployed to assist in the rescue efforts. The army has set up a relief camp in the affected area, where food, clothing, and medical supplies are being distributed to those in need.
The cloudburst has also disrupted communication services in the area, with mobile networks and internet connectivity affected. The authorities have assured that all efforts are being made to restore communication services as soon as possible.
The cause of the cloudburst is still unknown, but experts believe that it may have been triggered by a combination of factors, including global warming and deforestation. The region has been experiencing unusual weather patterns in recent years, with frequent cloudbursts and flash floods becoming a regular occurrence.
As the villagers of Chashoti village struggle to come to terms with the devastating effects of the cloudburst, the authorities are working to provide relief and assistance to those affected. The Machail Mata Yatra, which is an important pilgrimage for the region, has been suspended indefinitely, as the village still reeling from the aftermath of the flash flood.
