Cloudburst Kills 3 in Ramban, Jammu-Srinagar Highway Blocked; CM Abdullah to Review Relief Efforts
A cloudburst in Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir claimed three lives on Sunday, prompting emergency rescue operations and halting traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in the Ramban cloudburst and announced he would personally review the restoration, relief, and repair efforts later today.
“Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban,” Abdullah wrote on X. “We are in touch with the local administration to ensure immediate rescue efforts wherever needed.”
He also urged citizens to follow official travel advisories and avoid non-essential travel in vulnerable areas, stressing that the priority is to manage the ground situation efficiently.
The cloudburst triggered multiple landslides and flash floods in the Seri Bagna area, leaving the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway blocked in both directions.
A traffic department spokesperson said landslides, mudslides, and “shooting stones” had occurred between Nashri and Banihal, severely affecting movement. “All vehicular traffic has been halted until further notice,” the official added.
Visuals from the region showed roads submerged in mud, debris, and rocks, with rescue and road-clearing teams deployed under challenging weather conditions.
Union Minister and BJP MP from Udhampur, Jitendra Singh, confirmed three casualties and praised the Ramban district administration for swift action.
“There was heavy hailstorm, multiple landslides and fast winds throughout the night. The National Highway stands blocked and, unfortunately, there have been 3 casualties,” he said.
Singh also stated that he had offered personal resources if needed and assured residents, “We shall all, together, overcome this natural calamity.”
Heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and strong winds battered several parts of Ramban on Saturday night, setting off natural disasters across the hilly terrain.
Two children were among those who died after the cloudburst struck Bhagna village near Seri Bagna. Several families were reportedly affected, with property damage yet to be fully assessed.
Disaster response teams are on the ground, and the J&K administration is monitoring the situation as more rain is forecast in the coming days.
CM Omar Abdullah is expected to hold a high-level review meeting later today. Restoration of the blocked highway remains a top priority, and additional assistance may be deployed depending on weather conditions.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors and cooperate with local authorities. Relief camps may be set up in affected areas if necessary.
