Kathua Cloudburst Tragedy: 4 Dead, Several Injured As Rains Ravage J&K; Railway Track & Highway Damaged, Rescue Ops On

Kathua: At least four people died and several others were injured after a cloudburst hit parts of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district during the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, officials said.

The incident, accompanied by heavy overnight rain, led to flash flooding that submerged roads, damaged infrastructure and cut off a village, affecting relief and rescue operations.

Official Statements and Relief Measures

According to an official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed grief over the deaths and the damage caused by landslides in parts of Kathua, including Jodh Khad and Juthana.

“Chief Minister has expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives and damage caused by landslides in several parts of District Kathua, including Jodh Khad and Juthana, which claimed 4 lives and left many injured. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, and assured all necessary assistance,” the statement said.

The Chief Minister directed the administration to carry out immediate relief, rescue and evacuation measures.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed damage to the railway track and the national highway in Kathua. In a post on X, he wrote, “Spoke to SSP Kathua Sh Shobhit Saxena after receiving information about a cloud burst in the Janglote area. 4 Casualties reported. In addition, damage has occurred to Railway track, National Highway while Police Station Kathua has been affected.”

He said the civilian administration, along with military and paramilitary forces, had been mobilised and the situation was being continuously monitored.

Weather Advisory and Helplines

The District Administration issued a weather advisory warning residents to avoid rivers, streams, nullahs and hilly or landslide-prone areas due to the risk of flash floods and landslides. Officials said water levels could rise suddenly and advised against unnecessary travel.

For assistance, residents have been asked to contact the District Emergency Operation Centre at 01922-238796, the Police Control Room at 9858034100, or the Emergency Response Support System at 112.

Authorities said rescue operations are underway and the situation is being monitored.