At least 60 people lost their lives and more than 100 sustained injuries after a devastating cloudburst hit Chashoti village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday afternoon, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed. A large-scale rescue operation is currently underway as officials fear over 500 people remain trapped under debris, with some estimates suggesting the number could be higher.
In his Independence Day address in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah began by extending heartfelt condolences to families who lost loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. He assured affected families of all possible government assistance while emphasising accountability. “We already knew about the weather forecast. Could more steps have been taken by the administration to save lives? We must make ourselves accountable,” he said.
The chief minister added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally called him to discuss the situation. Omar said he briefed the PM on rescue efforts and acknowledged the Union Government’s support. On social media, he announced that he would be leaving for Kishtwar to review the situation firsthand.
Rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, Army, and local volunteers are working relentlessly to save lives. Heavy machinery has been deployed to clear debris, while medical teams are treating the injured in makeshift camps.
To assist locals and pilgrims, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up a control room-cum-help desk in Gulabgarh Paddar, about 15 km from the affected site. Citizens can contact helplines at 9858223125, 6006701934, 9797504078, 8492886895, 8493801381, and 7006463710 for support.