Deadly floods and landslides hit Jammu and Kashmir

Shrine route landslide claims 33 lives

A devastating landslide occurred on the route to the famous Hindu shrine Vaishno Devi, killing 33 people, according to local disaster management official Mohammad Irshad.

Record rainfall in Jammu and Udhampur

India's Meteorological Department reported unprecedented 24-hour rainfall totals. Jammu recorded 296 mm, surpassing its 1973 record, while Udhampur registered a staggering 629.4 mm — 84% higher than its 2019 record.

Prime Minister Modi responds

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the loss of lives as "saddening," as the government monitors the situation and coordinates response efforts.

Infrastructure overwhelmed by torrential rain

The intense monsoon storm caused rivers to overflow, bridges to collapse, and homes to flood. In the Kashmir valley, the Jhelum river crossed danger levels, prompting flood alerts, including in Srinagar.

Climate change intensifies monsoon disasters

Experts warn that climate change and unregulated development are worsening the impact of monsoon-related disasters. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) highlighted increased glacier melt, unstable mountain slopes, and poor planning in flood-prone areas.

Thousands displaced, schools closed

The local administration reported thousands forced to flee. Schools were shut, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah noted severe communication disruptions hampering relief efforts.

Series of tragedies across Himalayan Region

On August 14, flash floods killed at least 65 people in Chisoti village, with 33 still missing. Earlier, on August 5, floods buried the town of Dharali in Uttarakhand under mud — with the likely death toll exceeding 70.