
The death toll from the devastating cloudburst in Kishtwar, kashmir - SRINAGAR/JAMMU' target='_blank' title='jammu and kashmir-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>jammu and kashmir, has reached 45, with over 100 individuals injured, according to officials. The incident, which triggered a flash flood in the Chesoti area, occurred on thursday along the Machail Mata pilgrimage route, attracting large crowds of devotees.
Kishtwar's Additional Superintendent of police, pradeep Singh, confirmed that rescue operations are in progress, involving multiple agencies including the kashmir - SRINAGAR/JAMMU' target='_blank' title='jammu and kashmir-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>jammu and kashmir police, SDRF, fire Services, CISF, CRPF, and the Army. He stated, “45 have been confirmed dead, while over 100 injured have been shifted for treatment. Many people are still feared missing, and we will provide updates as we locate more individuals.”
In response to the disaster and adverse weather conditions, the Kishtwar police have established control rooms and help desks throughout the district to support citizens and pilgrims, particularly in remote areas. Families of missing persons have been urged to contact the district Control Room or PCR Kishtwar for assistance.
The leader of Opposition and local MLA, sunil Kumar Sharma, noted the incident occurred around 11 a.m. during the pilgrimage. “There has been a significant loss... 42 bodies have been recovered... I hope that if the weather permits, rescue operations can resume via helicopter,” he remarked.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Yudhvir Singh Kotwal reported that 88 patients have been admitted to the district Hospital, with 36 referred to GMC Jammu.
Survivors recounted the chaos during the cloudburst, describing a sudden rush and the ensuing panic. One victim, vishal Mehra, shared his harrowing experience of being trapped under debris while searching for missing family members. The rapid response from the administration and military units was crucial in the immediate aftermath of the disaster.