Kathua: A cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district has claimed at least four lives and left several others injured, officials confirmed on Sunday. The disaster struck Janglote village late Saturday night, triggering flash floods and heavy damage in the area.
According to authorities, the sudden deluge also destroyed infrastructure, including stretches of the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway (NH-44), a railway track, and even a local police station.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who represents Udhampur constituency, said on social media that civil administration, military, and paramilitary forces have been pressed into service to assist with relief and rescue operations. “The situation is being closely monitored,” he stated, extending condolences to the bereaved families.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and directed the administration to provide immediate assistance. His office said that areas such as Jodh Khad and Juthana were among the worst hit. “The Chief Minister has assured full support to the victims’ families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the Kathua district administration has issued a weather advisory, warning residents of continued heavy rainfall. Citizens have been urged to avoid rivers, streams, and hilly terrain prone to landslides and flash floods. Officials noted that the Ujh river is currently flowing close to the danger mark.
Emergency helpline numbers — 01922-238796 and 9858034100 — have also been released for public assistance.
Rescue teams remain on high alert as rainfall continues across the region, raising fears of further landslides and flooding in vulnerable areas.
