Multiple cloudbursts struck the hilly districts of Kishtwar and Doda in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday evening, causing flash floods, road blockages and widespread disruption to normal life. Authorities issued an alert and mobilised emergency response teams, though no loss of life was reported.
Areas affected by the cloudbursts
According to officials, the cloudbursts occurred in Thathri in Doda district and the Drabshalla and Sarthal areas of Kishtwar. The incidents followed heavy rainfall that began around 4 pm and continued for nearly an hour.
The sudden downpour brought debris onto roads and caused muddy water to enter several homes in the affected areas. At Thathri, multiple vehicles were seen covered with accumulated debris. A landslide also struck a local madrasa, while volunteers assisted students in crossing floodwaters and helped rescue stranded motorists and residents.
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Vehicular movement on the Batote-Doda-Kishtwar National Highway was restored within three hours. However, clearance operations continued late into the night on the Thathri-Drabshalla stretch, particularly in the Machipam and Saroor areas, where debris remained piled up on roads.
Authorities issue warning
Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma said cloudbursts have become a recurring phenomenon in the district over the past two to three years. He urged residents to avoid water bodies and nullahs during periods of rain and throughout the upcoming monsoon season.
The administrations of both districts directed departments, including Revenue, PWD, Mechanical Engineering, PMGSY, JPDCL, Jal Shakti, Health and Medical, Education, Irrigation and Flood Control, NHIDCL and BRO, to remain on alert and provide immediate assistance if needed. Tehsildars have also been instructed to promptly report any weather-related damage to life or property.
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LG Sinha monitors situation
Officials said Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is closely monitoring the situation. In a post on X, he said, "Spoke with Deputy Commissioners of Kishtwar and Doda regarding the flash floods caused by heavy rainfall... Emergency response teams have been directed to remain on high alert and continuously monitor the situation."
"I've directed both the DCs of Kishtwar and Doda to swiftly restore roads, highways and water pipelines. Field staff and specialised medical teams are on high alert, and damage assessments will begin as soon as field verification is complete."
