Flash floods kill 12 in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch, Rajouri

Srinagar: At least 12 people were killed after heavy rain triggered flash floods and landslides in Jammu and Kashmir's border districts of Poonch and Rajouri, causing widespread destruction to homes, roads and vehicles. Rescue operations are underway, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cut short his Delhi visit to monitor the situation.

Poonch was the worst-hit district, with 11 deaths reported. The Lower Murrah area of Surankote witnessed severe flooding and landslides that buried houses and trapped families. A minor girl drowned after being swept away by a stream, while the body of an unidentified woman was recovered near Dhundak bridge.

In neighbouring Rajouri, flash floods inundated residential areas and swept away several vehicles at the general bus stand. Continuous rainfall has hampered rescue efforts by the administration, police, SDRF, Army and local volunteers.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reviewed the situation and directed officials to provide immediate relief to affected families. Omar Abdullah expressed grief over the loss of lives and assured all possible assistance, saying he would personally oversee relief operations.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of continued heavy rainfall between July 19 and 23, raising the risk of flash floods, landslides, mudslides and cloudburst-like events across vulnerable areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The Pir Panjal range, Chenab Valley and higher reaches of Kashmir have been identified as vulnerable areas.

As a precaution, the annual Amarnath Yatra has been temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. Pilgrims have been advised to remain at designated accommodation centres until further instructions. The weather department also warned that heavy rain could disrupt road connectivity, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, and urged residents to avoid landslide-prone areas and swollen rivers.