Continuous torrential rains have wreaked havoc across the Jammu region, causing flash floods, landslides, and widespread road blockades. In a tragic incident, two men lost their lives when a landslide buried their tent in the Mahore area of Reasi district.
The deceased were identified as Rashpal Singh (26) from TuliKalavan and Ravi Kumar (23) from Chenani. According to police, they were resting inside a tent near a Lord Shiva shrine in Badora, Mahore tehsil, where they were assisting with track maintenance for shrine pilgrims, when the landslide struck. A joint rescue operation by locals and police recovered their bodies from the debris. Postmortem is underway.
Key Highways Blocked, Hundreds Stranded
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) — a crucial link between the Valley and the rest of India — remains blocked at several points, including Magerkote and Seri in Ramban district, due to mudslides and flash floods.
Additionally, the Mughal Road and Kishtwar-Sinthan route are also blocked, disrupting transportation across Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Doda, Reasi, and Ramban districts.
Hundreds of commuters and Amarnath pilgrims have been stranded, with authorities halting vehicular movement until conditions improve. Emergency clearance work is ongoing.
MeT Issues Heavy Rain, Flash Flood Warnings
According to Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, Udhampur recorded the highest rainfall at 51.8 mm, followed by Ramban (20.5 mm), Reasi (17.9 mm), and Jammu (8.5 mm).
He warned of intense rainfall, gusty winds (30–40 km/h), and a high risk of landslides, mudslides, and flash floods in vulnerable regions, particularly South Kashmir, Rajouri, Poonch, and the Banihal-Ramban axis.
“On 24th July, intense rain is expected at scattered locations in Jammu division including Reasi, Udhampur, Ramban, Rajouri, and Poonch,” said Dr. Mukhtar.
“From 25th to 27th July, the region may see hot and humid weather with brief showers at a few locations.”
Disaster Response and Precautions
District administrations have activated emergency control rooms, and J&K Police have published a list of emergency contact numbers across all affected districts to assist the public.
The MeT Department has advised tourists, pilgrims, and transporters to avoid travel, especially in mountainous or flood-prone areas. Activities like Shikara rides and boating have been discouraged during periods of heavy rainfall.
Traffic Advisory
According to the traffic police spokesperson:
- NH-44 remained blocked for over 3 hours in the past 24 hours due to flash floods and mudslides in T2 and Seri, Ramban.
- Slow traffic was reported between Nashri-Dalwas and Marog–Kishtwari Pathar due to vehicle breakdowns and single-lane stretches.
- Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) and private cars are allowed on both sides of NH-44, but Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) will be allowed on alternate days.
- On the Mughal Road, after clearance from GREF, LMVs are allowed from both directions, while HMVs (up to 10 tyres) can travel from Shopian to Poonch only.
Property Damage Under Assessment
Officials have reported damage to multiple kutcha houses and cowsheds, though the complete extent of losses is yet to be assessed.
Conclusion
With flash flood warnings in effect and heavy rainfall continuing for a third consecutive day, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and limit movement. The ongoing weather crisis highlights the region’s vulnerability to monsoon-triggered disasters, even as emergency services work around the clock to restore connectivity and prevent further loss of life.
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