J&K: 10 Killed in Flash Floods in Rajouri and Poonch; Shri Amarnath, Mata Vaishno Devi Yatras Suspended Due to Bad Weather

At least 10 people lost their lives and eight others are reported missing after multiple cloudbursts triggered flash floods in Rajouri and Poonch districts of Jammu and Kashmir during the early hours of Sunday. The sudden floods caused widespread destruction, washing away at least 20 vehicles and damaging nearly 40 others.

 

 

Several houses and other structures were damaged in Surankote area of Poonch, while around 20 shops and other buildings suffered damage in Rajouri. Roads, bridges and public infrastructure were also affected, disrupting normal life in many areas. Rescue and relief teams have been deployed, and search operations are underway to trace the missing persons.

 

 

In view of the severe weather conditions, the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra have been temporarily suspended following a bad weather advisory issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The decision has been taken as a precaution to ensure the safety of pilgrims.

 

 

Officials have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers and streams, and follow all advisories issued by the administration. Pilgrims have also been requested to cooperate with authorities and wait for further updates by the government before resuming their journeys.

 

 

The administration is closely monitoring the situation, and restoration and rescue efforts are underway in the affected areas. Authorities have assured that the yatras will resume once the weather improves and it is safe for pilgrims to travel.