A devastating cloudburst in Chisoti, a village in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with reports indicating at least 46 fatalities. The deluge struck on Thursday, August 14, 2025, unleashing torrential rain and triggering flash floods in the region.
Chisoti, the last motorable village on the route to the revered Machail Mata temple, was particularly affected as the site serves as a key stop for pilgrims. The annual Machail Mata Yatra, which began on July 25 and was scheduled to continue until September 5, had drawn large numbers of devotees to the area. The 8.5 km trek to the 9,500-feet-high shrine starts from Chisoti, which is about 90 kilometers from Kishtwar town.
The sudden cloudburst, which occurred between 12 noon and 1 pm local time, caused widespread destruction, washing away homes, shops, and other structures. A 'langar' (community kitchen) set up for devotees bore the brunt of the cloudburst, which led to flash floods. The gushing waters also damaged roads and disrupted communication lines, hampering initial rescue efforts.
Rescue operations were launched immediately, with teams from the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) mobilized to the affected area. The Army also joined the rescue efforts, deploying over 300 troops from the White Knight Corps, along with medical detachments. Efforts are centered on safeguarding lives and aiding survivors. As of Thursday, August 14, authorities had rescued over 160 people, with 38 reported to be seriously injured.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and assured all possible assistance. Shah spoke with the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to assess the situation, while NDRF teams were rushed to the site. The UT administration has established a control room-cum-help desk to assist those affected by the flash floods, providing helpline numbers for assistance.
Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation as "grim" and has cancelled cultural events planned for Independence Day celebrations. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed authorities to strengthen rescue operations and provide all necessary assistance to those affected. Political figures, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, have conveyed their sympathies and urged authorities to ramp up relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The India Meteorological Department defines a cloudburst as a sudden, extreme downpour exceeding 100mm of rain in an hour. The Srinagar weather office has warned of further intense rainfall in several parts of Kashmir, including Kishtwar, urging residents to take precautions due to the risk of fresh landslides and flash floods.
