Record-breaking rainfall has triggered catastrophic flooding and landslides in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), resulting in at least 36 fatalities and widespread destruction. The relentless downpour, which began earlier this week, has caused the Jhelum River to breach flood alert levels and has crippled infrastructure across the region.
The Jammu region has been particularly hard-hit, with the highest rainfall in over a century exacerbating the crisis. A devastating landslide near the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district claimed the lives of at least 31 pilgrims and injured many others, leading to the suspension of the pilgrimage. Authorities have mobilized rescue operations, but efforts are hampered by continued rainfall and damaged infrastructure.
The Kashmir Valley is also facing a dire situation as the Jhelum River has crossed the flood alert mark in Srinagar and Anantnag, inundating residential areas. The Irrigation and Flood Control Department reported that the Jhelum at Sangam was flowing at 23.99 feet, nearing the danger mark of 25 feet. At Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar, the river reached 20.72 feet, just below the danger level of 21 feet. Authorities have issued strict advisories urging residents and tourists to avoid venturing near rivers and water bodies.
The extreme weather has caused extensive damage to public infrastructure, including key bridges, houses, and commercial establishments. Collapsed bridges, snapped electricity poles and mobile towers have disrupted essential services, leaving millions without communication. The Jammu-Srinagar and Kishtwar-Doda highways remain closed due to landslides, and train services have been disrupted.
In response to the crisis, the Ministry of Home Affairs has deployed 17 teams of the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) for rescue and relief operations. The NDRF, along with the CRPF, BSF, and other central agencies, is actively engaged in evacuation efforts and providing assistance to affected communities. The Indian Air Force is also assisting, with C-130 aircraft transporting relief materials to Jammu. The Army has mobilized relief columns to assist in saving lives and evacuating civilians to safer areas.
The J&K government has ordered the closure of all educational institutions and government offices, except for emergency services. The J&K Board of School Education has postponed Class 10 and 11 exams. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the situation and has received assurances of assistance from the Central government. The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, is also closely monitoring the situation and has directed officials to speed up restoration work. Financial assistance has been announced for the families of the deceased by the Uttar Pradesh government.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the record downpour, the focus remains on rescue and relief efforts, restoring essential services, and providing support to those affected by this devastating natural disaster. The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued adverse weather conditions, including intense rain, thundershowers, and the possibility of further cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides until September 1, warranting continued vigilance and preparedness.
