In Jammu and Kashmir's Katra, a massive landslide amidst heavy rain near Ardhkuwari on the Mata Vaishno Devi route has claimed the lives of 34 individuals. Numerous people have been injured, with rescue teams tirelessly searching through debris where several are feared trapped. The Jhelum River is flowing above danger levels.
Severe rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir has led to devastating conditions, with flash floods and landslides causing destruction. Infrastructure has been heavily compromised, including collapsed bridges and severely damaged power lines and mobile towers. By Tuesday, over 3500 residents were safely relocated from the flood-stricken regions across the district, overwhelmed by rising waters.
Jammu reported a staggering 296.0 mm of rainfall within 24 hours by 8:30 AM Wednesday, exceeding the previous record of 272.6 mm on August 9, 1973. Udhampur witnessed 629.4 mm of rain during the same period, almost doubling the former 24-hour benchmark of 342.0 mm set on July 31, 2019.
CM Omar Abdullah Updates PM Modi on Situation
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah communicated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the intense rain and flood conditions affecting the Jammu region, expressing gratitude for the Central Government's assurance of comprehensive aid. CM Abdullah stated, 'I have spoken to the Prime Minister. He has been briefed about the situation. I thank him and the NDRF for deploying teams. The Central Government is committed to offering every possible support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.'
CM Visits Flood Affected Areas
After visiting the flood-affected regions in Jammu, Abdullah shared on X about briefing the Prime Minister on the worst-hit zones. He surveyed parts of Jammu along the Tawi River, where significant damage occurred yesterday. 'Thanks to the cessation of rainfall today, we've experienced a bit of relief compared to yesterday,' the Chief Minister noted. Water levels in low-lying areas are gradually subsiding, but the flood damage remains evident to all.
Source: aajtak
Bridge at Tawi River Discussed
Highlighting the bridge collapse over the Tawi River, Abdullah remarked, 'I was discussing with the Divisional Commissioner how in 2014 the same bridge experienced damage. There is a hazard here that we haven't fully understood. Expert teams need to determine why the same side was damaged then and now. We must implement measures to prevent recurrence.'
Impacted Areas Include Samba, Kathua
CM Omar Abdullah emphasized that residents along the Tawi and other rivers consistently face danger, suggesting resettlement as a future consideration. Ongoing relief and rescue operations are being conducted swiftly. Other impacted areas include Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, and parts of Doda-Kishtwar, whereas Rajouri and Poonch remain stable. Assessment of damages will guide relief packages.
PM Modi Expresses Concern
Expressing sorrow over the loss from landslides in Vaishno Devi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the administration is assisting all those impacted by the tragedy. He communicated on X, 'The loss of lives and property due to landslides on the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage route is tragic. My condolences are with the bereaved families. Wishing the injured a swift recovery. The administration is aiding all affected. Praying for everyone's safety and well-being.'
