Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha following a cloudburst in Kishtwar district.
Officials said the Prime Minister reviewed the situation and assured all possible assistance. “He took stock of the situation and promised all help,” they added.
A massive flash flood, triggered by a cloudburst, hit a remote mountain village in Kishtwar on Thursday, killing at least 60 people and injuring over 100, according to reports.
Officials warned that the death toll may rise as many people are still feared trapped.
Meanwhile, former J&K Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah claimed that “in Kishtwar, more than 500 people are still trapped under the debris.”
Chisoti village, serving as the base camp for the annual Machail Mata Yatra, was bustling with pilgrims when the disaster struck between 12 noon and 1 pm on Thursday.
The floods, accompanied by mudslides and debris flows, buried homes, shops, and vehicles, leaving behind casualties and numerous missing persons. The deluge also swept away a security camp and several vehicles parked at the bus stand, though a temple at the heart of the flooded area miraculously survived.
A langar (community kitchen) set up for devotees bore the brunt of the cloudburst, with the flash floods washing away several structures, including shops and a security outpost. (Agencies)
