National: A cloudburst of catastrophic proportions has struck the Jod Ghati village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. The overnight deluge, which occurred between Saturday and Sunday, claimed the lives of four individuals and left six others injured, cutting off the remote hamlet from the rest of the region.
Officials reported that the incessant downpour caused significant damage to land and property, with the roaring flash flood engulfing the village in the dead of the night. Following the disaster, a joint team of police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) was mobilised for a strenuous rescue operation. After hours of battling the challenging terrain, the joint team, along with local volunteers, managed to reach the affected area.
The rescue efforts led to the grim discovery of four bodies. Additionally, six persons were successfully rescued from the rubble and are now being shifted to a hospital for urgent medical attention. Authorities confirmed that concurrent landslides also impacted other villages, including Bagard, Changda, and Dilwan-Hutli, although no major damage or casualties were reported from these areas.
The relentless rains have led to a significant surge in water levels across the region, with the Ujh river flowing perilously close to the danger mark. In light of the escalating situation, the district administration is maintaining a vigilant watch and has issued a stern advisory, urging residents to stay clear of all water bodies for their safety.
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