The death toll from a massive cloudburst that devastated a remote mountain village in Kishtwar district on Thursday has risen to 52, including two CISF personnel, officials said.
Also, at least 112 people were injured and number of fatalities is feared to rise as many are still trapped under debris.
Officials reported that 112 people have been rescued so far, with several in critical condition. Over hundred are missing, they said.
The disaster struck Chositi, the last motorable point en route to the revered Machail Mata temple between 12 noon and 1 pm. At the time, a large number of devotees had gathered for the annual Yatra, which began on July 25 and was scheduled to conclude on September 5.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha spoke to the Home Minister Amit Shah and briefed him about the on-going Rescue and Relief Operations, according to official communication. The Union Home Minister has assured all possible assistance.
The Lieutenant Governor is constantly monitoring the situation. He has directed the officials of Civil Administration, Police, Army, NDRF and State Disaster Response Forces to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected persons.
Rescue and Relief Operations are in full swing. Men and machinery have been put at the site. Other teams have also been rushed and the Air Force has been alerted for evacuation.
The Lieutenant Governor has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragic incident.
“I want to assure all the affected families that the Government stands shoulder to shoulder with them in this hour of crisis,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor has posted on X: “Anguished by cloudburst in Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families and prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected.”
Rescue and Relief Operations at Chashoti are in full swing. Men and machinery have been put at the site. Other teams have also been rushed. Briefed Hon’ble Union Home Minister Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue and relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance.
I want to assure all the affected families that Government stands shoulder to shoulder with them in this hour of crisis. Air Force has also been alerted for evacuation. I am constantly monitoring the situation.” (GNS)