Kishtwar Cloudburst: Massive Cloudburst Hits Machail Mata Yatra Route, 12 Feared Dead
A massive cloudburst struck the remote village of Chishoti in the Padder sub-division of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday, triggering widespread panic and fears of significant casualties. The incident occurred along the route of the annual Machail Mata Yatra, a major pilgrimage, raising concerns for the safety of both local residents and devotees in the area. Initial reports suggest there could be a substantial loss of life and property, though official confirmation is still awaited as rescue teams make their way to the affected site.
The administration immediately launched a massive rescue and relief operation. Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed that he had spoken with the Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, after being alerted to the disaster. “Massive cloud burst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty. Administration has immediately swung into action, rescue team has left for the site,” Singh posted on X, assuring that all possible assistance would be provided.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also reacted to the tragedy, expressing his anguish and directing a multi-agency response. “Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected,” Sinha stated, offering condolences to the bereaved families.
The incident is the latest in a series of extreme weather events to hit India’s Himalayan region during this year’s heavy monsoon season. Hilly states, particularly Uttarakhand, have been severely affected by cloudbursts, landslides, and flash floods.
Recently, roads were blocked in Chamoli district due to landslides, and a devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi on August 5 left a trail of destruction, sweeping away houses and infrastructure in the villages of Dharali and Harsil.
