Cloudburst in Kathua claims 4 lives

Jammu : Four people have been killed, and several others injured after a catastrophic cloudburst led to severe flash flooding in Kathua district this morning, amidst continuous rains, officials said here on Sunday morning.

An official told news agency that the disaster has caused widespread damage, with floodwaters inundating the industrial area, Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV) school, and the police station in Janglote. Critical infrastructure, including railway tracks and sections of the National Highway, has been severely affected, disrupting connectivity in the region.

The cloudburst caused flash floods that swept through Janglote and surrounding areas, including Jodh Village, Ghatti, Chandarh, Bhed Blore, Bagrah, Dilwan, Hatli, and Lakhanpur. The flooding resulted in the tragic loss of four lives, with six others injured and receiving medical attention. Rescue operations, led by the Indian Army, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are underway to assist affected residents and provide immediate relief.

The industrial area in Kathua has been significantly impacted, with floodwaters entering factories and causing operational disruptions. The Kendriya Vidyalaya school and the Janglote police station have also been inundated. Damage to the railway track and National Highway has further isolated communities, complicating relief efforts and affecting transportation in the region.

“The loss of lives and the widespread destruction caused by this cloudburst is heartbreaking,” said another official. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of residents, provide medical care to the injured, and restore critical infrastructure as quickly as possible. We are working tirelessly to support the affected communities.”

The public is advised to avoid rivers, streams, and other water bodies, especially in hilly and vulnerable areas. Given the ongoing heavy rainfall, water levels can rise without warning, posing a serious threat of flash floods and landslides.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed the casualties after speaking with Senior Superintendent of Police, Kathua, Shobhit Saxena. “Four lives have been lost in the cloudburst at Janglote. The railway track and NH44 have sustained damage, and the local police station has also been affected. Civilian, military, and paramilitary forces are actively responding to the crisis,” Singh stated, expressing his condolences to the families of the deceased.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, 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. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, and assured all necessary assistance.

The Chief Minister has directed the administration to carry out immediate relief, rescue, and evacuation measures to ensure the safety and support of affected families—(KNO)