Lagatar24 Desk
Jammu: The Jammu region has been devastated by relentless rains and thunderstorms, which triggered floods, landslides and widespread damage, claiming 36 lives. The downpour peaked at 380 mm in 24 hours — the highest since records began in 1910.
Landslides On Vaishno Devi Route
A massive landslide on Tuesday killed 32 pilgrims on the Vaishno Devi yatra route near Katra, forcing authorities to suspend the 12-km trek. Tons of mud and rocks tumbled down the slopes around 3 pm, halting the pilgrimage midway and leaving scores injured. Relief operations have since been launched, with the army and disaster response teams working round the clock.
Widespread Flooding And Evacuations
Entire residential areas in Peerkho and Nikki Tawi were washed away as rivers swelled dangerously. While water levels in the Tawi river have started receding, the Chenab and Jhelum remain above danger marks. More than 5,000 people have been evacuated from low-lying areas by combined rescue teams. In Jammu city, the fourth bridge over the Tawi collapsed under the flood’s force.
Shutdowns And Connectivity Issues
Schools, colleges, government offices, and training institutes across Jammu and Kashmir remain closed. Internet and mobile services have been restored at 2G level in parts of the Union Territory, while BSNL has asked users to switch networks for connectivity. Train services between Jammu and Pathankot resumed after a suspension on Tuesday.
Weather Outlook And Advisory
The India Meteorological Department reported that the storm’s overall intensity is decreasing, but moderate convection remains widespread across Jammu plains. Authorities warn of light to moderate thunderstorms in isolated areas, with the possibility of localized intense spells in Kathua and Udhampur. Residents have been urged to stay away from rivers and landslide-prone slopes as relief and repair efforts continue.
