Kishtwar, August 14, 2025: A massive cloudburst struck the Chishoti area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, triggering a flash flood along the route of the Machail Mata Yatra. The disaster, which occurred in the Paddar region, has caused extensive damage, with several houses and a large langar for pilgrims washed away. Multiple casualties are feared, although official confirmation on the exact toll is awaited.
According to officials, the incident has severely impacted the pilgrimage route, forcing authorities to suspend the Machail Mata Yatra until further notice. The pilgrimage, which began on July 25 and was scheduled to continue until September 5, draws thousands of devotees to the Chandi Mata Mandir in Machail, Paddar Valley.
Rescue Efforts in Full Swing
Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma confirmed that rescue operations were launched immediately, with teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, and the Indian Army deployed to the affected site.
“We are assessing the extent of the damage and ensuring the safety of residents and pilgrims. Adequate medical facilities, doctors, and medicines have been arranged at designated booths along the yatra route,” Sharma said.
Leaders React, LG Directs Relief Measures
Union Minister and local MP Dr. Jitendra Singh said he had spoken to the DC about the situation, warning that the cloudburst could result in substantial casualties. “The administration has swung into action, and rescue teams have left for the site,” he posted on X.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the incident, offering condolences to the bereaved families and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. He directed civil, police, Army, SDRF, and NDRF officials to strengthen rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance to those affected.
Leader of Opposition and local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma, who recently reviewed arrangements for the Machail Mata Yatra 2025, urged for enhanced safety measures along the pilgrimage route, especially in landslide-prone areas.
Pilgrimage Route Severely Affected
The cloudburst has damaged the motorable road from Padder to Chashoti, as well as the 8.5 km trekking path to Machail. Authorities are working to restore connectivity and clear debris as quickly as possible.
The Machail Mata Yatra Cell, under Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, had earlier ensured sanitation, security, and medical facilities for pilgrims. However, the sudden natural disaster has disrupted these arrangements, forcing an emergency response.
