Lagatar24 Desk
Kishtwar: At least 20 people lost their lives and 98 others were rescued after a massive cloudburst triggered flash floods in Chashoti village of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday afternoon. The incident forced the suspension of the annual Machail Mata Yatra, a key pilgrimage route to the Himalayan shrine of Mata Chandi.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Officials confirmed that 20 bodies have been recovered, with fears that the death toll could rise. Among the rescued, 28 are reported to be in critical condition. Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma and SSP Naresh Singh are at the site overseeing the rescue. The NDRF has deployed 180 personnel from its Udhampur base, equipped with modern equipment. Arrangements for heli-rescue have been initiated to provide urgent medical treatment.
Leaders Respond to Tragedy
Union Minister Jitendra Singh assured full assistance and highlighted the scale of the disaster. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow and confirmed that his office is coordinating with district authorities to expedite relief. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed the police, Army, and disaster agencies to intensify rescue operations and provide all necessary support to the victims and their families.
