A massive cloudburst struck Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, near the Machail Mata Shrine, resulting in widespread devastation and a tragic loss of life. The disaster, which occurred in Kishtwar's Chesoti village along the Machail Mata Yatra route, has claimed at least 45 lives and left over 100 injured. Many are still reported missing, and rescue operations are ongoing.
The cloudburst hit Chashoti village, the last motorable point on the way to the Machail Mata temple, between 12 noon and 1 pm. At the time, a large number of pilgrims had gathered for the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden surge of water and debris swept through the area, causing widespread destruction and trapping many people. A 'langar' (community kitchen) packed with devotees bore the brunt of the cloudburst, which led to flash floods and washed away several structures, including shops and a security outpost. Dozens of vehicles were also damaged.
Survivors have recounted the horror of the event, describing a sudden and overwhelming surge of water and debris. One survivor described it as feeling "like a blast". The rapidly filling rivulets quickly swamped the valley, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Many victims were having lunch at the pilgrim camp when the cloudburst struck, leaving them with little time to react.
Rescue operations are underway, with teams from the Civil administration, Police, Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) working to locate the missing and provide aid to the affected. Personnel from the Indian Army's 16 Corps have also been mobilized to assist in the rescue efforts. Two NDRF teams, comprising nearly 180 personnel, have been rushed to the site with advanced search-and-rescue gear. Kishtwar Additional Superintendent of Police Pradeep Singh told ANI that rescue operations are underway with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, SDRF, Fire Services, CISF, CRPF and the Army on the ground.
The J&K administration has set up a control room-cum-help desk to assist people and pilgrims in Paddar, about 15 km from Chashoti village. Authorities are assessing the damage and prioritizing the safety of people in vulnerable zones.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh said the incident near the Machail Mata Shrine in Kishtwar "could result in substantial casualties," and the administration has immediately swung into action, with rescue teams dispatched to the site. Lieutenant Governor of J&K directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as “grim”. He also announced the cancellation of his scheduled "At Home" tea party on Independence Day.
The 43-day Shri Machail Mata Yatra, which commenced on July 25 and was to continue until September 5, has been suspended.
Cloudbursts are common in hilly regions due to the topography and weather conditions. Mountains force moist air to rise rapidly, causing sudden cooling and condensation. Warm air with high moisture content meets cooler air at high altitudes, resulting in intense convection and localized torrential rain.
