J&K cloud burst: rescue & relief operations in full swing, death toll rises to 60

Srinagar, August 15 : Relief and rescue operations are underway in Chistoti village of Paddar Sub Division, Kishtwar district, after a massive cloudburst struck the area yeasterday. The death toll has risen to 60, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced during the Independence Day celebrations in Srinagar. Over 100 people have been injured, while several others remain missing.

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local authorities are engaged in locating those still trapped. The annual Machail Mata Yatra has been suspended following the tragedy.

The cloudburst caused extensive damage, sweeping away houses, shops, and vehicles. Many victims were pilgrims en route to the Machail Mata Temple when flash floods struck.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and the Chief Minister to review the situation. Authorities have identified 30 of the recovered bodies so far. More than 160 people have been rescued, with 38 reported in critical condition.

A control room-cum-help desk has been set up in Paddar, around 15 km from Chistoti, to assist locals and pilgrims. Helpline numbers: 9858223125, 6006701934, 9797504078, 8492886895, 8493801381, 7006463710.