Cloudburst, Landslides Ravage J&K’s Kathua; Seven Dead, Rescue Operations Underway

Kathua (J&K), August 17, 2025 – A powerful cloudburst struck the Rajbagh–Ghati region of Kathua district in Jammu & Kashmir late Saturday night, unleashing flash floods and landslides that left at least seven people dead, including five children, and several others injured.

Admin Aug 18, 2025 20 0

Cloudburst, Landslides Ravage J&K’s Kathua; Seven Dead, Rescue Operations Underway

Kathua (J&K), August 17, 2025 – A powerful cloudburst struck the Rajbagh–Ghati region of Kathua district in Jammu & Kashmir late Saturday night, unleashing flash floods and landslides that left at least seven people dead, including five children, and several others injured.

The sudden downpour triggered massive landslips, washing away roads, flooding low-lying areas, and leaving vehicles submerged in mud and debris. Railway services along the crucial Jammu–Pathankot route were also disrupted, adding to the chaos.

Rescue and Relief in Full Swing

Rescue teams from the Army, NDRF, and SDRF were immediately deployed to the affected zones. Several injured were airlifted to hospitals by helicopter as ground connectivity remains difficult due to blocked roads. Authorities are continuing evacuation efforts in vulnerable areas to prevent further casualties.

Kathua Deputy Commissioner confirmed that emergency shelters have been set up and relief distribution is underway. District hospitals are on high alert to treat those injured in the disaster.

Government Response

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed grief over the tragedy and assured full support for relief and rehabilitation. The CM also announced an ex-gratia compensation package for the families of those who lost their lives.

Region Already on Edge

The Kathua disaster comes just days after a catastrophic cloudburst in Kishtwar’s Chashoti village, which killed more than 60 people and left hundreds missing. Experts warn that the back-to-back calamities highlight the increasing vulnerability of Jammu & Kashmir’s hilly terrain to extreme weather events.

Public Advisory

Authorities have urged locals to stay away from rivers, nallahs, and landslide-prone slopes, as the Meteorological Department predicts more rainfall in the coming days. Rescue teams remain on high alert amid fears of further landslides and flash floods.

A State in Mourning

As Kathua mourns its dead and rescue operations continue, questions about long-term preparedness and climate resilience in the Himalayan region have resurfaced. For now, the priority remains saving lives, restoring communication, and providing relief to those left homeless by the sudden fury of nature.