J&K Flash Floods and Landslides Kill 3, Hundreds Rescued as Roads Remain Cut Off
J&K Flash Floods and Landslides Kill 3, Hundreds Rescued as Roads Remain Cut Off
At least three people have died and hundreds were rescued after flash floods and landslides battered various parts of Jammu & Kashmir this weekend. As a result of the torrential rain, many key roads have been blocked, leaving several areas completely cut off from the rest of the region.
Torrential Rains Trigger Floods and Landslides
Heavy rainfall began late Friday night and continued into Saturday morning. Consequently, the excess water overwhelmed natural drainage systems, triggering flash floods and landslides in multiple districts, including Doda, Ramban, Poonch, and Udhampur.
Meanwhile, the Chenab River and its tributaries rose above danger levels, inundating low-lying regions. According to the J&K Disaster Management Authority, the downpour damaged roads, houses, and bridges, making rescue efforts extremely difficult.
Casualties Reported, Swift Rescue Operations Launched
So far, three people have lost their lives, including a young child in Doda district. In one tragic incident, a temporary shelter collapsed due to a landslide. However, prompt response from NDRF, SDRF, Army, and local police ensured hundreds were rescued safely from high-risk zones.
For instance, a passenger bus stranded near Ramban with over 40 people onboard was safely evacuated. Thanks to the coordinated efforts, no further injuries were reported.
Roads Severed, Travel Severely Disrupted
In addition, several vital transportation routes, such as the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and the Mughal Road, were closed due to landslides and waterlogging. As a result, the movement of essential goods and relief materials has been seriously hindered.
Although authorities are working continuously, persistent rain has made debris removal slow and dangerous. Crews from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and Public Works Department (PWD) are on the ground attempting to restore access.
Relief Camps and Community Support
To manage the crisis, the government has set up temporary shelters and relief camps. These provide food, water, and medical aid to families displaced by the floods. Moreover, schools and public buildings have been repurposed to house those who lost their homes.
Officials have advised residents to remain indoors and stay updated through official channels. Importantly, emergency hotlines have been activated for those in need.
Weather Forecast Raises Alarm
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, predicting more rain over the next few days. Therefore, residents in vulnerable areas have been asked to avoid travel, especially near riverbanks and steep slopes.
Government Response and Support
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed condolences to the bereaved families and directed officials to ramp up relief operations. He also emphasized the need for timely medical support and quick restoration of road connectivity.
In a tweet, he stated, “All necessary help will be provided to those affected. Rescue operations are ongoing, and every life matters.”
Conclusion: Urgent Need for Preparedness
In conclusion, while emergency response teams are making heroic efforts, the crisis highlights a pressing need for better infrastructure and disaster preparedness in the region. With climate patterns becoming more unpredictable, it’s vital to strengthen early warning systems and improve drainage and road networks.
For ongoing updates, citizens can visit the official J&K Disaster Management Portal and follow IMD bulletins.
