Two children lost their lives after a house collapsed in the Ramban area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district following relentless overnight rainfall on Saturday. The extreme weather triggered landslides, flash floods, and mudslides, leading to the complete suspension of vehicular traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44).
According to officials, the torrential downpour caused multiple landslides and mudslides across several regions, especially along NH-44, severely impacting connectivity. Nearly 100 people had to be rescued from affected parts of Ramban district after floodwaters inundated homes and swept away vehicles.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Efforts
Around 40 residential houses were reported damaged or destroyed in Dharam Kund village, officials told PTI. Visuals from the site showed debris-strewn roads, stranded vehicles, and mud-covered homes. Police personnel, undeterred by the adverse weather, led multiple rescue operations to help villagers stranded by the flooding.
Political Leaders Respond
Union Minister Jitendra Singh, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed the deaths of three people and extensive property damage in the Ramban area. “The National Highway stands blocked, and unfortunately, there have been three casualties and loss of property for several families,” he wrote, praising the district administration for its swift response. He assured full support, including financial aid, and emphasized the need to remain calm.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed deep anguish over the tragedy. “Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban,” he wrote on X. He assured the public that he would be reviewing restoration, relief, and repair plans later in the day, while urging citizens to follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas.
Weather Woes Continue
Several areas in Udhampur district also witnessed fallen trees and power outages, further compounding the disruption. The situation unfolded just days after the India Meteorological Department had forecast light to moderate rain and snow across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with peak activity expected between April 18 and 20.
As rescue and relief operations continue, authorities are urging caution and preparedness while hoping to restore normalcy soon in the flood-hit regions.
Sources By Agencies
