Heavy rainfall has continued to lash Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in widespread flooding and damage. Images of a flooded Ghanta Ghar in Srinagar have circulated on social media, prompting the J&K government to place its key departments on alert.
The Met office has forecast more rain over the next two days, with the possibility of flash floods and landslides. In response, the government has issued advisories across districts in the Valley, urging people to remain vigilant and avoid venturing near hill slopes, rivers, and streams. Residents, particularly those living in vulnerable areas, are strongly advised to avoid unnecessary movement in and around slopes, high altitudes, and hilly areas until the weather conditions show improvement.
The government has also put its key departments on high alert, requesting them to remain on alert and take all necessary precautions and response measures. The alert comes after torrential rain wreaked havoc in Jammu’s Rajouri and Poonch districts, where flash floods swept away homes and people. The death toll has reached 17, with several people still missing.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced compensation of Rs 6 lakh each for the next of kin of those killed. The relief comprises Rs 4 lakhs from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and an additional Rs 2 lakhs from the Chief Minister’s relief fund.
The Met department has forecast more rain across Jammu and Kashmir over the next three days, with the possibility of heavy rain, intense showers, and extremely heavy rain in some districts. The weather advisory has warned of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and a rise in water levels in rivers and streams.
As a precautionary measure, the government has extended the summer vacation by three days and shut all government and recognised private schools in the valley till July 22. The government has also suspended the Amarnath Yatra from both the Baltal and Chandanwari routes. Control rooms have been set up in every district, and people have been asked to call the toll-free numbers in case of an emergency or for assistance.
Meanwhile, two people were killed and five others injured after landslides on the Batote-Doda national highway in Jammu. Rescue teams were rushed to the spot, and road clearance efforts are underway.
