What Happened
A devastating cloudburst hit Chosoti, a remote village on the Machail Mata Yatra route in Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir, between midday and 1 p.m. on Thursday. The sudden downpour transformed mountain streams into raging torrents, resulting in catastrophic flash floods.Kashmir Observer
Casualties and Damage
- At least 38 people are confirmed dead, including two CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) personnel. Officials warn the toll may rise as rescue operations continue.www.ndtv.com+1
- Earlier reports mentioned 12 bodies recovered, reflecting the chaos of the unfolding situation.Wikipedia+2The Times of India+2
- Authorities estimate over 50 people are missing, and around 100 have sustained injuries in the floods.Hindustan Times+4AP News+4Wikipedia+4
Pilgrimage Disrupted
The flash floods struck along the Machail Mata Yatra route, a pilgrimage that begins at Chosoti. In response to the disaster, the pilgrimage has been suspended indefinitely.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
- Immediate rescue operations were launched by the NDRF, SDRF, police, Army, and local volunteers. A control room has been established to coordinate the response.indiatoday.in+
- Leaders at both the state and central levels, including CM Omar Abdullah, LG Manoj Sinha, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have expressed grief and pledged all possible assistance.
Why It Matters
This natural disaster underscores the extreme risks of Himalayan pilgrimages, especially as climate change increases the frequency of unpredictable events like cloudbursts. The fragile terrain and limited infrastructure in remote regions like Kishtwar amplify the potential for devastation during such incidents
