Jammu, Aug 14 — A devastating cloudburst struck Chositi village in Padder sub-division of Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir, on Thursday, leaving 38 people dead and over 100 injured. The Omar Abdullah-led government has launched a large-scale relief and rescue operation in the affected area.
The Army’s Nagrota-headquartered White Knight Corps confirmed that over five columns of 60 personnel each, along with medical detachments, are working round the clock in coordination with J&K Police, SDRF, and other agencies to rescue survivors and provide aid. Helicopters have been deployed to evacuate the injured, while the search for missing persons continues.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said rescue operations were in “full swing” and briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who assured all possible assistance. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cancelled the traditional Independence Day ‘At Home’ tea party and cultural programmes as a mark of respect to the victims, though the formal parade and speech will continue.
Union MoS (PMO) Jitendra Singh confirmed that damage assessment and medical assistance are underway, with his office receiving regular updates. BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, along with senior district officials, has reached the site to oversee rescue efforts.
The tragedy occurred near the endpoint of the Shri Machail Yatra route, where temporary shops operate. Authorities have suspended the yatra until further notice.
Rescue work faces challenges due to the remote terrain, heavy rains, and poor communication in the shadow zone. While official casualty figures are being updated, locals report significant damage to structures. SSP Kishtwar Naresh Singh confirmed that teams are on-site, urging the public not to panic and assuring that all resources, including the Red Cross and government machinery, are being mobilised to assist the affected families.
