Kathua (J&K): At least seven people, including five children, lost their lives and nine others were injured after cloudbursts struck two villages in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district early Sunday. The incident comes just days after a similar tragedy in Kishtwar’s Paddar area, which claimed over 65 lives.
Tragedy Strikes Jodh Ghati and Bagra Villages
The cloudbursts hit Jodh Ghati village in Rajbagh and Bagra village in Janglote, triggering flash floods that swept through homes and roads.
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At Jodh Ghati, Surmu Din (32) and his two sons Fanu (6) and Shedu (5) died, along with Zulfoon (15) and Tashu (2).
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In Bagra, Renu Devi (39) and her daughter Radhika (9) lost their lives.
Residents said floodwaters entered parts of Rajbagh and Kathua towns, submerging roads, lanes, and even the Rajbagh police station, before receding a few hours later. Several houses, vehicles, and belongings were damaged.
Roads and Rail Disrupted
The Dyalchak–Billawar and Lakhanpur–Basohli roads were closed after landslides, while rail traffic between Kathua and Jammu was briefly suspended due to overflowing tracks. Trains were later restored but ran 3–4 hours late.
Army and Police Lead Rescue Efforts
The Indian Army, local police, and administration teams launched urgent rescue and relief operations. DIG Police for the Jammu-Samba-Kathua range personally supervised ground efforts.
The Rising Star Corps of the Army wrote on X:
“Indian Army columns on the ground in Kathua — rescuing families, giving hope, food and care after the cloudburst.”
Authorities have urged people in hilly areas to remain indoors and avoid water bodies, warning of possible flash floods as the Ujh river is flowing near danger level.
Leaders Express Condolences, Announce Relief
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, assuring full central support.
“Relief and rescue operations are underway. NDRF teams have also been rushed. The Modi government stands firmly with the people of J&K,” Shah said on X.
LG Sinha directed senior officials to ensure on-site medical aid and relief.
CM Omar Abdullah announced financial assistance from the CM’s Relief Fund:
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₹2 lakh for families of the deceased
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₹1 lakh for the severely injured
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₹50,000 for those with minor injuries
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₹1 lakh for fully damaged houses
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₹50,000 for severely damaged houses
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₹25,000 for partially damaged houses
Union minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed that civil administration, Army, and paramilitary forces are coordinating rescue and relief.
Weather Outlook
The IMD has forecast heavy to intense rainfall over parts of Jammu, Reasi, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, Samba, and Kathua till August 19, with moderate to heavy showers expected in Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban.
