Three, including two children, killed as landslide hits Ramban; over 200 houses damaged
Ramban, Apr 21: A tragic landslide triggered by heavy rainfall and a cloudburst claimed three lives, including two children, in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district on Sunday, Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary confirmed.
The incident occurred in Bagahana village, where two houses collapsed due to the landslide. The Deputy Commissioner stated that approximately 200 to 250 houses have been damaged, with Ramban town witnessing the maximum destruction.
“Incessant rains and a cloudburst led to multiple blockades along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. In Ramban, houses and hotels have suffered significant damage. A rescue operation is underway, with NDRF teams en route and local teams actively involved,” Chaudhary said.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary rushed to Ramban to take stock of the situation and assess the damage caused by the flash floods and landslides.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) has been severely affected, with many houses and vehicles damaged along the route. Authorities have advised the public to avoid traveling until the weather improves and clearance operations are completed.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti expressed grave concern over the situation and urged the government to act swiftly to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected. “The devastating landslides have claimed lives, stranded people, and buried vehicles. The administration must prioritise the evacuation of vulnerable groups and provide essential aid,” she said, calling for long-term solutions like early warning systems and infrastructure upgrades.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a post shared by the Chief Minister’s Office on X, he said, “Extremely anguished by the tragic landslide and flash flood in Ramban. My thoughts are with the affected families. We’re coordinating with the local administration to ensure rescue operations are carried out effectively.”
He added that a review of relief, restoration, and repair measures will take place later in the day, and advised the public to adhere to travel advisories and avoid non-essential movement in vulnerable areas.
Rescue and relief operations remain ongoing as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage.
