Doda, July 7: A devastating cloudburst that struck the upper reaches of Thathri town during the intervening night of July 6 and 7 triggered massive flash floods, causing extensive damage to residential houses, commercial establishments, a private school and vehicles in Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir.
According to official and local sources, the cloudburst occurred late Monday night, sending a massive flow of water laden with mud, rocks, boulders and debris crashing through parts of Thathri town. The sudden flash flood engulfed several localities, leaving residents scrambling to safety as homes, shops and parked vehicles were buried under debris.
As per the preliminary assessment, at least 13 residential houses, 15 shops, one private school and around 20 vehicles have been completely damaged. Dozens of other residential and commercial structures have also suffered partial damage.
One woman sustained injuries during the incident and was shifted for medical treatment. Officials said her condition is stable. No loss of life has been reported in the disaster.
The flash floods also disrupted normal life in the town, blocking roads with mud, boulders and debris and affecting public movement. Residents, assisted by local volunteers and authorities, began clearing debris from houses, shops and roads soon after the floodwaters receded.
Teams from the district administration, Revenue Department, Police and other line departments have launched a comprehensive assessment of the damage. Restoration work and debris clearance operations are continuing, while authorities are compiling reports to facilitate relief and rehabilitation for the affected families.
Officials have advised residents living near seasonal streams and vulnerable hill slopes to remain alert, as intermittent rainfall continues across the Chenab Valley, increasing the possibility of further flash floods and landslides.
Thathri has witnessed similar devastation in the past. In 2017, a cloudburst-triggered flash flood struck the area, claiming the lives of at least six people and causing widespread destruction. The latest incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of the mountainous region to extreme weather events during the monsoon season.
Authorities said the damage assessment is still underway, and the extent of losses may be revised as survey teams complete their inspections.
