Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir– A massive cloudburst in Chasoti village, located in the remote Kishtwar district of Jammu & Kashmir, has claimed at least 12 lives. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue in the disaster-hit area.
Key Points of the Kishtwar Cloudburst Tragedy
- 12 bodies recovered so far from Chasoti village; toll may rise.
- Incident occurred during Machail Mata Yatra between 12 noon–1 PM.
- Rescue operations involve SDRF, police, Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Omar Abdullah briefed Amit Shah; updates are slow due to remote location.
- Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Union Minister Jitendra Singh assure all possible help.
The tragic incident occurred between 12 noon and 1 PM when a large number of devotees were gathered for the Machail Mata Yatra. Chasoti is the last motorable point on the pilgrimage route, leading to an 8.5 km uphill trek to the revered temple. The sudden deluge swept through the densely populated foothill hamlet, destroying multiple homes and forcing officials to halt the annual yatra.
Omar Abdullah Updates Amit Shah on Situation
Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the grim situation. “The news is grim and accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving,” Abdullah stated.
Rescue Teams Rushed to the Spot
The news of the cloudburst reached officials around 11:30 AM. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and other emergency teams quickly mobilized. According to Jammu Divisional Commissioner, the Army, Navy, and Air Force have been alerted to assist in the rescue mission.
Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and Senior Superintendent of Police Naresh Singh are on-site to coordinate relief efforts, supported by a team led by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Padder.
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha Offers Condolences
Jammu & Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
“Anguished by the cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided.”
Union Minister Jitendra Singh Monitors Situation
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed that he has spoken to the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar. “A massive cloudburst in Chositi could result in substantial casualties. Administration has immediately swung into action, and a rescue team has left for the site,” he said.
Search and Relief Operations in Full Swing
Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma reported that large-scale rescue operations are underway to locate missing persons and provide medical aid to the injured. The sudden cloudburst and ensuing flash floods have left behind widespread devastation, with fears of further casualties as search teams sift through debris.