JAMMU, Aug 14: At least 10 people are feared dead after a massive cloudburst led to a flash flood in Jammu and Kashmir’s Chasoti area this afternoon, said officials. Rescue teams have been rushed to the spot. Visuals showed pilgrims are being evacuated. Chasoti is the starting point for the Machail Mata Yatra.
“A flash flood has occurred at Chashoti area in Kishtwar, which is the starting point of the Machail Mata Yatra. Rescue Operations have been started,” said Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Sharma.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh said he has spoken to Mr Sharma after being informed about the cloudburst by the Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly and local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma.
“Massive cloud burst in the Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty. Administration has immediately swung into action, rescue team has left for the site. Damage evaluation and necessary rescue and medical management arrangements are being made. My office (is) receiving regular updates, all possible assistance will be provided,” he said in an online post.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed the police, army, and disaster response agencies to strengthen the rescue operations.
“Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families and prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF and SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected,” he said.
