Rajouri: Torrential rain triggered flash floods in the Darhali Atti area of Jammu and Kashmir, leaving a trail of destruction as floodwaters swept through residential localities and fertile agricultural fields. While no casualties have been reported, residents say the disaster has caused severe financial losses, with homes, livestock and standing crops suffering extensive damage.
The sudden surge of water entered several houses during the early hours of the morning, forcing families to flee to safety. Many residents managed to escape in time, but were unable to save their belongings as floodwaters rapidly inundated their homes.
Local resident Sajid Malik recounted the terrifying experience, saying his family had to evacuate around 3:30 a.m. as water levels rose unexpectedly.
He said the family succeeded in escaping safely, but several horses owned by his relatives died because there was no time to move them. According to Malik, the flood reached levels never witnessed before in the area, catching villagers completely off guard.
Apart from residential damage, the floods devastated agricultural land that serves as the primary source of livelihood for many families. Large stretches of farmland were washed away, destroying crops such as rice and maize, which were nearing maturity.
Residents said the destruction of farmland has left many households uncertain about their future income, as the cultivated land supported numerous farming families in the region.
Several displaced families have taken temporary shelter in nearby government schools and Panchayat buildings after their homes became uninhabitable. Household items, furniture and food supplies were reportedly destroyed as water entered living spaces.
Villagers have appealed to the administration for immediate relief, including food, temporary accommodation and financial assistance. While acknowledging that the losses cannot be fully compensated, they urged authorities to provide support to help affected families rebuild their lives and restore their livelihoods.
Local officials are assessing the extent of the damage, while disaster response teams continue monitoring the situation in the flood-hit region. Authorities have also advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as heavy rainfall is expected to continue in parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
