The Jammu region is grappling with a severe flood situation as of August 27, 2025, triggered by incessant heavy rainfall over the past few days. The River Ravi has flooded Lakhanpur, leading to the relocation of a CRPF office due to the extensive damage. The relentless downpour has caused widespread damage and disruption, with rising water levels in major rivers and reports of landslides and flash floods from various districts.
The overflowing River Ravi in Lakhanpur, Kathua district, prompted authorities to open all gates of the Ranjit Sagar Dam, further exacerbating the flood situation in downstream areas. A CRPF office in Kathua, situated near the riverbanks, was damaged, necessitating its relocation. In response to the crisis, the Jammu administration has restricted night movement to ensure public safety.
Across the Jammu division, at least 10 people have died due to rain-related incidents. Six fatalities occurred, and 18 people sustained injuries due to landslides on the route to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. The pilgrimage to the shrine has been temporarily suspended. An additional four lives were lost in the Doda district. A cloudburst in Doda damaged more than 10 houses and triggered flash floods.
The heavy rainfall has disrupted essential services, including electricity and internet, in several areas. Mobile and internet services have been hit due to damage to optical fibres at multiple locations. All government offices, except those providing emergency services, remained closed. All government and private schools across the Jammu division have been ordered to remain closed for the second consecutive day. The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education has postponed Class 10 and 11 exams.
Traffic on key highways, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and the Jammu-Udhampur up-tube, has been suspended due to landslides and waterlogging. A bridge on the Jammu-Pathankot highway was damaged, causing the route's closure.
In response to the escalating situation, rescue operations are underway in multiple districts. More than 3,500 residents have been evacuated to safer locations in a multi-agency operation led by the Jammu District Administration. The evacuated people are being provided with food, clean water, and medical care at temporary shelters. Community kitchens have been set up to provide food, and medical teams are stationed at relief sites.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has termed the situation serious and has placed emergency funds at the disposal of Deputy Commissioners. He has directed all departments to remain on high alert and prepare for possible evacuations. A high-level meeting was held in Srinagar to review flood mitigation efforts, and instructions were issued to maintain high alert and ensure a swift response.
The Meteorological Department has predicted continued rainfall, heightening concerns of further inundation. Authorities have issued advisories warning of further landslides, cloudbursts, and flash floods. People are strongly advised to stay away from riverbanks and flood-prone areas. Helpline numbers have been issued, and all departments have been placed on high alert.
The administration is closely monitoring the situation and has issued helpline numbers for emergencies. The numbers are Jammu- 01912571616 & 0191-2520542, Samba-01923241004, Kathua-01922238796, Doda- 95967762043, Kishtwar- 9484217492.
