Deadly Cloudburst Strikes J&K Pilgrimage Route
A devastating natural disaster has struck Jammu and Kashmir, where a massive cloudburst in the Kishtwar district has triggered a deadly flash flood. The tragedy occurred in Chositi village, along the busy Machail Mata Yatra pilgrimage route, leaving a scene of widespread destruction and chaos.
Mass Casualties and a Desperate Search
The scale of the disaster is immense. At least 40 people, including two CISF jawans, have been confirmed dead, and over 220 people are still missing. The situation is particularly grim as reports suggest that nearly 1,200 people were present at the site when the cloudburst hit. Videos from the area show a raging torrent of water and pilgrims being hurriedly evacuated from the pilgrimage's starting point.
Massive Rescue Efforts Underway
A large-scale rescue operation has been launched, with teams from the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local police and civil administration working together. The immediate priority is to search for survivors and provide aid to the more than 120 people who have been injured.
The highest levels of government are monitoring the situation. J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has briefed the Union Home Minister, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences, assuring that all possible assistance will be provided. As rescue teams race against time, the full extent of the tragedy is still unfolding, with the focus remaining on the desperate search for the hundreds who are still missing.
Image Source: WION
