At Least 60 Killed, Several Trapped After Cloudburst in J&K
A devastating cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district has claimed the lives of at least 60 people, leaving over 100 injured and hundreds more feared trapped under the debris. The disaster struck Chashoti village in the early hours of Thursday afternoon, catching residents off guard and causing widespread destruction.
According to reports, the cloudburst was accompanied by flash floods and landslides, which further exacerbated the devastation. The affected areas are still struggling to come to terms with the magnitude of the disaster, with rescue operations underway to evacuate those trapped and provide aid to those in need.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has confirmed the death toll, adding that a massive rescue operation is underway to reach those stranded. “I believe more than 500 people are still trapped under the debris in Kishtwar,” he said, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah also spoke out about the disaster, expressing deep concern for those affected. “The situation is grave, and immediate assistance is required to rescue those trapped and provide aid to the affected families,” he said.
The cloudburst is believed to have been caused by a sudden and intense burst of rain, which was unprecedented in the region. The storm caught residents off guard, leaving them little time to evacuate or seek shelter. Many homes were destroyed, leaving families without adequate shelter or access to basic necessities.
Rescue teams from the Indian Air Force, Army, and local authorities have been working tirelessly to reach those trapped and provide aid to those affected. The teams are facing significant challenges, including treacherous terrain and limited access to the affected areas.
Despite the challenges, the rescue teams are working relentlessly to evacuate those trapped and provide medical assistance to the injured. Emergency services have been mobilized to provide aid to those in need, including food, shelter, and medical care.
The government has also announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the disaster. Additionally, the government has set up relief camps to provide shelter and food to those who have been displaced.
The cloudburst has also caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads and bridges. The state government has promised to undertake repair and reconstruction work as soon as possible to restore normalcy to the affected areas.
The people of Jammu and Kashmir are known for their resilience and ability to face adversity with courage and determination. In the face of this devastating disaster, they are once again showing their strength and spirit.
As the rescue efforts continue, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are coming together to support those affected. Neighbors are helping neighbors, and community leaders are working with the government to provide aid and assistance.
The cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir is a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of disaster preparedness. It is also a testament to the resilience and strength of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who are able to face even the most challenging circumstances with courage and determination.
