4 Dead, Several Injured After Cloudburst In J&K’s Kathua; Railway Track, Highway Hit

Last Updated:August 17, 2025, 11:06 is

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed the administration to carry out immediate relief, rescue and evacuation measures to ensure the safety and support of affected families.

Aftermath of cloudburst in Kathua

At least four people died, and several others got injured after a cloudburst incident hit several parts of the Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir during the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday, amid heavy overnight rains, officials said. The sudden deluge has cut off a village, hampering rescue and relief efforts. Authorities have been alerted, and rescue operations are underway.

Following the incident, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah offered condolences and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. “Chief Minister 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, which claimed 4 lives and left many injured. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, and assured all necessary assistance,” said an official statement from CMO.

It further added that 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.

LG Manoj Sinha also expressed grief on the incident and informed that he has briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the incident. He also mentioned that a rescue operation is underway.

Taking to X, he wrote, “Deeply anguished by the loss of lives in the devastating rain-triggered landslides in several areas of Kathua. The tragedy is mind-numbing. Briefed Hon’ble Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue and relief operations by the army, NDRF, SDRF, police & administration.”

“I have directed the Senior Civil & Police Officials to coordinate and execute rescue and aid efforts in the affected areas and ensure on-site medical assistance. My thoughts are with bereaved families and praying for the swift recovery of those injured,” he added.

Railway Track Damaged, Authorities Continuously Monitoring Situation

Union Minister Jitendra Singh informed in a post on X that the incident has damaged the Railway track and the national highway, adding that the situation is being monitored continuously.

“Spoke to SSP Kathua Sh Shobhit Saxena after receiving information about a cloudburst in the Janglote area. 4 Casualties reported. In addition, damage has occurred to Railway track, National Highway while Police Station Kathua has been affected,” he wrote on X.

“The civilian Administration, Military and Paramilitary has swung into action. The situation is being continuously monitored. My sincere condolences to the families of the deceased,” he added.

Kathua Weather Alert: Public Urged to Stay Away from Risk Zones

In light of ongoing heavy to very heavy rainfall across Kathua district, the District Administration has issued a weather advisory, urging residents to take immediate precautions. Citizens are strongly advised to avoid rivers, streams, nullahs, and other water bodies, as well as hilly and landslide-prone areas, due to the heightened risk of flash floods and landslides.

Officials warn that rising water levels could occur suddenly, posing a significant threat to safety. The administration has emphasized the importance of vigilance and caution, encouraging the public to stay informed and avoid unnecessary travel through vulnerable regions.

For assistance, residents can contact the following helpline numbers:

District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC): 01922-238796

Police Control Room (PCR): 9858034100

Emergency Response Support System (ERSS): 112

The District Administration has urged everyone to stay safe and follow official guidance during this period of severe weather.

view comments

Location :

Jammu and Kashmir, India, India

Read More