J&K’s Kishtwar hit by two simultaneous cloudbursts, no casualties reported yet

A natural disaster struck Jammu & Kashmir’s Kishtwar district after cloudbursts occurred simultaneously in the Sarthal and Machhipal areas. The sudden downpour triggered panic across the region, with several areas getting inundated. 

Rescue operations were carried out to evacuate people trapped in affected locations. Meanwhile, the closure of a key highway has left hundreds of travellers stranded.

Floodwaters and debris rushing down from the mountains created chaos in the valley. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries have been reported so far. However, the twin cloudburst incidents caused widespread destruction within a matter of minutes.

The Kishtwar-Thathri main highway has been completely blocked after large amounts of mud, rocks and debris came crashing down from the hills. The disruption stranded hundreds of commuters and local residents who were travelling along the route.

Following the incident, local authorities and disaster management teams rushed into action. Rescue personnel, assisted by JCB machines and other equipment, are working to clear debris from the highway. Efforts are also underway to move stranded people to safer locations and restore traffic movement as quickly as possible.

The disaster has severely impacted connectivity in the region. The Kishtwar-Thathri road is a vital lifeline for local residents and also holds strategic importance. With tonnes of debris covering the roadway, the risk of further landslides in the coming days remains high. Authorities have issued an alert across the area, urging residents to avoid hilly regions and stay away from rivers and streams while exercising utmost caution.