Jammu and Kashmir continues to grapple with severe flooding and landslides caused by relentless monsoon rains and consecutive cloudbursts. The mountains of Jammu have seen tragic losses, including the death of 11 people in Ramban and Reasi districts. Among them was a couple and their five children who were buried alive when a mud torrent swept through their home. The flooding has destroyed homes, schools, and roads, with the Jammu-Srinagar highway reopening only partially after being shut for five days.
The disaster has pushed the monsoon death toll in Jammu division to 122 in August alone. Rescue and relief operations are actively underway, with more than 200 people rescued so far in flood-affected areas like Kathua. The Jammu-Srinagar Diocese is playing a crucial role in providing shelter, food, and medical care to displaced and affected families.
In view of ongoing adverse weather conditions, all government and private schools across Jammu division will remain closed on September 1 to ensure the safety of students and staff. The pilgrimage route to the Vaishno Devi shrine remains suspended following deadly landslides that claimed over 30 lives near Katra.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit Jammu on a two-day trip starting August 31 to assess the flood situation, conduct an aerial survey, and coordinate relief and restoration efforts in the region. Jammu administration and security officials will join him in reviewing the rescue and rehabilitation measures.
The Jammu administration continues to prioritize restoring normalcy with the repair of damaged roads and infrastructure amidst ongoing weather warnings for potential further heavy rainfall.
