Kishtwar cloudburst: 55 dead, massive rescue operations underway

Search and rescue operation underway at Chisoti village after a flash flood triggered by cloudburst, in Kishtwar Pic/ PTI

Rescue and relief efforts are in full swing in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district after a cloudburst-triggered flash flood during the Machail Mata Yatra on August 14 claimed at least 55 lives, officials said on Saturday, reported ANI.

Major General A. P. S. Bal, GOC Counter Insurgency Force-Delta, said the Army was the first to respond, reaching the disaster site within 45 minutes. "All security forces are working tirelessly to rescue stranded people and provide relief to locals. The Indian Army was the first to respond, and we continue to assist with relief measures," he told reporters.

The Indian Army is leading ground operations with support from the NDRF, SDRF, BRO, police, and local administration.

BJP leader Ravinder Raina confirmed that several people remain missing. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are monitoring the situation closely. "There has been a huge loss of life and property. Search operations are still underway. PM Modi, Amit Shah, and Rajnath Singh are personally overseeing developments. J&K CM Omar Abdullah has also visited the spot," Raina said, reported ANI.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed operations in Chashoti, Kishtwar, assuring uninterrupted essential supplies to affected families. In a post on X, LG Sinha wrote, "Spoke to Senior Officials and took stock of the rescue and relief operations at Chashoti, Kishtwar. I will ensure the reconstruction of homes damaged in flash floods. I've also directed the senior officials for immediate relief & uninterrupted essential supplies to the affected."

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed that 55 bodies have been recovered so far and announced ex-gratia from the CM's Relief Fund - Rs 2 lakh for families of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh for the severely injured, and Rs 50,000 for those with minor injuries. Compensation will also be provided for damaged homes - Rs 1 lakh for fully destroyed structures, Rs 50,000 for severely damaged, and Rs 25,000 for partially damaged houses, reported ANI.

Abdullah further directed officials to expedite the restoration of damaged infrastructure and assured residents that the government stands firmly with Kishtwar during this tragedy.

(Inputs from ANI)