Kathua: Torrential rainfall triggered flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, severely damaging a vital bridge on the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway near Sahaar Khad in Kathua district, officials confirmed.
The damage, caused by rapidly rising water levels, has disrupted traffic flow on one of the region’s most critical road links, which connects Jammu with Punjab and the rest of northern India.
Damage Reported Amid Ongoing Rainfall
Local authorities reported that the bridge structure was compromised as floodwaters surged through Sahaar Khad following relentless overnight rains.
“The intensity of water flow increased dramatically in a short span, leading to visible structural damage to the bridge,” an official at the scene said early Sunday.
There are no immediate reports of casualties, but authorities have issued advisories urging motorists to avoid the affected stretch of the highway until further inspection and clearance are completed.
Travel Disruptions and Emergency Measures
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and local disaster response teams are currently assessing the extent of the damage and have begun efforts to divert traffic. Alternate routes through interior roads and local bypasses are being arranged to maintain regional connectivity.
Emergency services have been placed on alert, especially with rainfall expected to continue in the region for the next 24 to 48 hours, raising concerns over additional landslides or flash flood events.
Persistent Weather Warnings
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has already issued weather alerts for multiple districts in Jammu and Kashmir, including Kathua, forecasting moderate to heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable zones to remain cautious and stay updated through official channels.
Strategic Importance of the Highway
The Jammu-Pathankot Highway is not only a crucial civilian transport route but also a strategic lifeline for military and logistic operations. Any disruption along this corridor often has wider implications for connectivity across Jammu, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh.
Repair efforts are expected to begin as soon as the weather stabilizes, with engineers already deployed for initial surveys of the bridge structure.
