Indian Army Steps In With Swift Relief Efforts in Ramban Following Cloudburst; NH44 Restoration Underway
In the wake of a cloudburst and heavy rainfall that battered Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district on Monday, the Indian Army promptly launched coordinated relief and restoration operations to aid affected civilians and restore connectivity along National Highway 44 (NH44), as per an official statement.
Army officials, in close coordination with civil administration including the District Commissioner, SSP, and Traffic Superintendent, undertook immediate assessments and initiated relief activities. While no formal emergency requisition has been raised yet, civil authorities have assured that Army assistance will be requisitioned if needed.
Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) from Banihal, Karachial, Digdaul, Maitra, and Chanderkote were swiftly deployed to provide aid to stranded passengers. Army personnel offered hot meals, tea, temporary shelter, and basic medical support at multiple points across the affected areas.
Eight Army columns (strength 1/1/18) have been kept on standby at strategic locations to respond further if the situation escalates. In the meantime, civilian contractors and infrastructure agencies including KRCL, CPPL, and DMR have started road clearance operations using JCBs and heavy machinery.
Initial estimates suggest it may take up to 48 hours to fully restore road connectivity along NH44.
Amid the chaos, the community spirit remained unbroken. A stranded passenger summed it up with hope: “Koi dikkat nahi hai… Army hai na… Sab kuchh theek ho jaayega” (“There’s no problem… The Army is here… Everything will be fine”).
The Indian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to stand by the people of Jammu & Kashmir in times of adversity, ensuring security, relief, and continued support.
Meanwhile, three people, including two children, died in Bagahana village after landslides caused the collapse of two houses. The flash floods and landslides have caused extensive damage across Ramban.
Given the prevailing weather conditions, J&K Education Minister Sakina Itoo announced the suspension of classwork in all schools across the Kashmir Valley on Monday, April 21, as a precaution to safeguard student safety.
